Portland Mayor Appeals for Community Support to Address Homelessness

The Mayor of Portland, Keith Wilson, has reached out to residents through a mass email, urging them to contribute their time, money, and household items to combat the growing homeless crisis in the city. The email, sent to approximately 17,000 recipients on September 5, 2025, reflects Wilson’s concerns about potential federal intervention, particularly from the administration of former President Donald Trump.

In his message, Wilson emphasized the need for community involvement. He stated, “I need your help. We’re delivering real change to Portland, and if you can contribute a bag of snacks, an hour of your time as an artist, teacher, or builder, or even a small show of financial support to our emergency shelter system, I want to connect.” The mayor’s appeal is framed against a backdrop of heightened anxiety regarding the federal government’s approach to homelessness, which he characterized as heavy-handed.

According to reports, the mayor’s email resonated with many residents. Bryan Aptekar, a senior program manager on the city’s homeless response team, noted that his office received a surge of inquiries and offers of support almost immediately after the email was sent. “It’s been less than an hour since the email went out and I’ve had a dozen calls and emails already,” he said, expressing excitement about the community’s willingness to engage.

Wilson’s deputy chief of staff, Taylor Zajonc, clarified that while the city is not accepting donations directly, it aims to facilitate connections between community members and nonprofit organizations that provide services to the homeless. The email listed a variety of items that residents could donate, such as phone chargers, chairs, clothing, blankets, and food.

The appeal for local support comes as the downtown area of Portland faces significant challenges, including an increase in tent encampments and drug use. The situation has been exacerbated by the state’s previous drug decriminalization policy, which many feel contributed to a surge in homelessness and overdose deaths. By 2023, Oregon reported over 20,000 homeless individuals, with nearly two-thirds living without shelter.

Earlier this week, the Meals on Wheels charity announced it would cease operations in Portland due to safety concerns for its staff, highlighting the growing crisis in the city. The organization had been a reliable provider of meals for vulnerable populations, but ongoing issues have made it increasingly difficult for them to operate effectively.

In response to Wilson’s email, a spokesperson from the White House, Abigail Jackson, welcomed the mayor’s initiative. She stated, “All local leaders should see the tremendous results achieved by President Trump in D.C. and look to emulate them in their own cities.” She asserted that Trump’s policies aimed at addressing homelessness have contributed to safer environments for both residents and the homeless population.

As Portland grapples with its homeless crisis, Wilson’s outreach underscores a clear distinction between local and federal approaches to the issue. While the federal government has been criticized for employing militarized tactics to manage homelessness in cities, Wilson advocates for a more compassionate and community-driven response.

The ongoing situation in Portland serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities surrounding homelessness in urban areas. As cities across the United States navigate similar challenges, Wilson’s call for community action may represent a critical turning point in how local governments address these pressing social issues.