Building More Compassion
Just Compassion
HBF Executive Director Brenda Ketah (Left) at Just Compassion
HBF Executive Director Brenda Ketah attended the groundbreaking ceremony at Tigard's Just Compassion where they are building a new 2 story building to enhance services for people experiencing homelessness. HBF had previously helped Just Compassion build a day center and severe weather shelter in 2018. An increase in homelessness led Just Compassion to develop a $12 million plan to build adjacent to the current Resource Center. Walsh Construction will spearhead the build. HBF’s Board of Directors authorized spending $50,000 for our portion.
The new building will include a commercial kitchen that will allow the organization to provide meals. There will also be room for laundry services. The additional space will accommodate offices for services such as counseling, mental health care, employment training and placement. There are also plans to provide transitional housing for people who are waiting for placement into permanent homes.
Just Compassion Site
Just Compassion Tigard Expansion
Looking Back
Our history with the organization began back in 2018. Greg Olson, of Olson and Jones served as the Builder Captain for the $380,000 project. In kind donations came in at over $203,000, resulting in savings of more than 50% of typical retail costs. At the time, HBF gave $57,000 in grants to help purchase supplies. The resource center officially opened its doors in June of 2018, then continued into 2019 with a bathroom conversion, ductless HVAC, exterior siding, paint, landscape and a wheelchair ramp. In late 2019, demolition began of the down stairs space, commercial plumbing upgrade, featuring bathrooms, showers, laundry room and space for an overnight shelter.
Just Compassion
Service Center Build in 2018
Just Compassion Board member Rob Watson told HBF’s Board the previous build made a major difference for their organization. “I can honestly say, we wouldn’t be where we are today without that partnership.” Just Compassion's budget has grown from $63,000 to $3.5 million annually, as they now operate a second location in Beaverton, run a street outreach service, as well as a safe parking lot program, where people experiencing homelessness can live out their cars.
The new center near Highway 217 will allow them to triple the number of beds they can offer at a time when demand continues to rise. They will serve single adults at the facility, and refer families to other organizations. This reflects the reality of Oregon homelessness, which is typically 70% men. Home Building Foundation looks forward to another successful partnership with this worthy organization. If you would like to be involved, contact Project Manger Chris McDowell.