City of Portland Announces Transition of Multnomah Safe Rest Village Shelter Site to Urban Alchemy on July 1

The City of Portland has transitioned the Multnomah Safe Rest Village shelter site to Urban Alchemy, effective July 1, 2025. Urban Alchemy, recognized for its trauma-informed, person-centered approach, will manage the site, enhancing support for individuals experiencing homelessness. Since its partnership began in 2022, Urban Alchemy has assisted over 1,500 people and facilitated more than 300 transitions to permanent housing. Dr. Lena Miller, CEO of Urban Alchemy, highlighted the effectiveness of their model, which leverages the lived experiences of its practitioners.

Brandy Westerman, Director of Humanitarian Operations, expressed the city's confidence in Urban Alchemy's long-term role in addressing homelessness. The city also thanked Sunstone Way for its foundational contributions to the shelter and confirmed its ongoing operations at two culturally-specific sites. This transition underscores Portland's commitment to fostering inclusive partnerships and effective solutions to homelessness. Urban Alchemy's innovative model aims to bring dignity and healing to vulnerable populations in the city.