The Breitung Building opened in 2020 as a collaborative program incorporating a 28-unit, project-based, Permanent Veterans Supportive Housing Facility in partnership with Housing and Urban Development (HUD)‘s Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) and the Joint Office of Homeless Services (JOHS). New Narrative has run the program since 2023.
A Roof Over Veterans’ Heads
More than 1,400 veterans were still estimated to be houseless (including half of that number living unsheltered) in Oregon as of October 2024, according to Oregon’s Department of Veteran’s Affairs. New Narrative’s Breitung Building program is working to change that number, one person at a time. Currently, 27 veterans call our Breitung Building home. Peer specialists are onsite 24/7 to support residents and work closely with VA caseworkers to provide more support to residents living at Breitung. Other supports offered include rides to doctor’s appointments, supporting with navigating health care including using the site’s laptop to find providers, job research, and community meetings.
More than Housing – A Home
Breitung residents enjoying Multnomah Falls
Breitung offers more than housing – it provides an opportunity for residents to pursue hobbies, join group outings, and gather on-site for Breitung activities. One peer specialist at Breitung spoke about the opportunities available, saying, “We have outings like trips to the movies, the Pickles baseball games, and other community events. Breitung residents love a good BBQ, and this is a great time for them to socialize and get to know each other while also building a stronger community.”
One recent excursion this month was a trip to Multnomah Falls to view the breathtaking waterfalls Oregon is known for. The residents enjoyed a light hike and the views, as well as time with one another.
Trystan, one of the residents on the trip, does not take his experience living at Breitung for granted. He shared,
“I’m profoundly grateful to New Narrative for giving me the chance to live in the Breitung Building. As a veteran, finding stability after hard times isn’t easy, but this place and these people gave me the foundation to heal, rebuild, and move forward with hope. It’s more than housing – it’s a second chance to stand tall again.”
Growing Hope at Breitung: the Community Garden
A raised flower bed at Breitung
Another addition to life at Breitung: a beautiful, vibrant community garden! Breitung residents have the option to cultivate fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers. Residents are cultivating the garden and harvesting the produce, which has provided a sense of purpose for many. This Veteran’s Day, we are thankful for the many people who make it possible for veterans to find a safe, secure home at Breitung Building.
New Narrative’s programs reached more than 40 veterans this year. When you support programs like Breitung at New Narrative, you’re part of the journey toward healing and purpose for veterans like Trystan. Learn more about how you can be a part of a new narrative for mental health: visit https://newnarrativepdx.org/donate/.
