Gladstone community shows strong results with culturally informed support
Tukwila Springs, an apartment community in Gladstone, Clackamas County, has become a model for stable housing solutions for older adults transitioning out of homelessness. Opened in the summer of 2022, it was the first development in the county funded through Metro’s affordable housing bond, creating permanent homes for 48 older adults in need of long-term stability.
A Project Built on Multiple Funding Sources
The development was made possible through a combination of local and federal support. Funding came from Metro bond dollars, federal tax credits, Section 8 rent assistance vouchers, and additional state resources. The layered financing approach was designed to expand access to affordable housing across the greater Portland region.
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The building previously served as an assisted living facility. It was renovated by Home Forward to better meet the needs of residents who had experienced homelessness, including updates that support accessibility, community connection and long-term living.
Supportive Services Rooted in Behavioral Health and Culture
A key component of Tukwila Springs is its strong focus on supportive services.
The Native American Rehabilitation Association (NARA) provides services for 36 of the households, using funding from Metro’s supportive housing services program. The remaining 12 households receive support from the State of Oregon.
Staff are trained in behavioral health to meet the needs of individuals who have lived through chronic homelessness. Amy Thompson, former Director of Housing Services at NARA, said the organization’s model is grounded in connecting residents to cultural practices, community, and behavioral health support.
Lead case manager Cameron Kenney noted that much of the work centers on helping residents navigate daily life. This includes assistance with transportation, access to healthy food, and building routines that support long-term stability.
A Major Milestone for Clackamas County
Tukwila Springs is part of a broader effort to expand permanent supportive housing in Clackamas County. Over the past four years, the county has created 1,162 permanent supportive housing units, surpassing its original 10-year goal of 1,065.
The community has shown remarkable success, reporting a 100% retention rate. While some residents have moved to other types of housing or passed away, none have returned to homelessness—a significant measure of the program’s impact.
Overcoming Obstacles with Flexibility and Community Support
Like many housing programs, Tukwila Springs has faced challenges. Federal government shutdowns and reductions in food assistance created hardship for residents. To address these needs, the community uses a flexible client assistance budget that helps residents purchase necessary items during times of financial strain.
A community garden also provides supplemental food and strengthens social connections among residents. Staff regularly coordinate access to medical care, ensuring that older adults with complex health histories receive the support they need.
A Continuing Commitment to Housing Stability
As of October 2025, Tukwila Springs remains a vital resource for people transitioning out of homelessness. Its combination of permanent housing, culturally grounded services and behavioral health support has helped residents maintain stability and rebuild their lives.
The project illustrates how collaborative funding and community-centered approaches can create lasting change for older adults who have faced years of housing insecurity.
