Rep. Dexter discusses housing initiatives with CEO Julie Ibrahim and New Narrative staff
November 2, 2022 – Oregon House Representative Maxine Dexter visited New Narrative and traveled to two of its transitional housing properties in Portland to witness the work being done firsthand. Rep. Dexter, who is also the Chair of the Housing Committee, is strongly dedicated to housing solutions for our most vulnerable populations here in Oregon.
The main site visit was to one of New Narrative’s transitional housing properties, which holds 35 units in Portland. Accompanied by New Narrative CEO Julie Ibrahim and Vice President of Development and Advocacy Beth Cooke, Rep. Dexter met with program staff who gave her a tour and overview of the location. She asked questions about services offered and let the staff know about the work she is doing in Oregon for housing initiatives. “As Oregon struggles with housing supply and a humanitarian crisis on our streets, we need to look at innovative solutions,” Rep. Dexter said. “Providing integrated, wraparound services via affordable housing is a fascinating way to get and keep Oregonians housed while working to support them through challenges that might otherwise leave them on the street.”
Rep. Dexter stands with New Narrative staff outside of one of the Portland transitional housing properties
The second location is an upcoming former hotel property which will be transformed into transitional housing in the near future. As Oregon continues to contend with a housing crisis, we are working closely with policymakers to ensure the challenges to mental health agencies are seen and understood at the top levels of government. Engaging with our Housing First work model in action gives representatives a realistic understanding of the benefits housing and mental health-based agencies can offer. We will continue to advocate for policies allowing these services to grow and become more available to meet the need in our communities. We look forward to continuing to implement these innovative responses to houselessness together.
Visit our webpage to learn more about New Narrative’s housing services.
