A New Food Oasis: Southwest Portland Welcomes a Free Food Market and Senior Center
PORTLAND, Ore. – This fall, Southwest Portland is gearing up to unveil a pioneering initiative that aims to combat food insecurity and foster community ties. Get ready for Neighborhood House’s new free food market and senior center, poised to make a significant impact in the area.
The Growing Need for Support
The nonprofit Neighborhood House has been a cornerstone of the Portland community, running a free food market on the city’s west side. However, the pandemic has highlighted a critical need, as the demand for food resources has dramatically surged. Now, in response to this urgent call for assistance, Neighborhood House is renovating a spacious 16,000-square-foot facility on Southwest Barbur Boulevard.
Chris Chiacchierini, the executive director of Neighborhood House, shared an inspiring vision for the project: "Our vision is that every neighbor has the community and support they need to thrive." With this new facility, the organization intends to expand its reach by 50%, ensuring that more residents can access the food and services they require.
A Fantastic Community Resource
During the groundbreaking ceremony, U.S. Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, D-Oregon, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The Neighborhood House really does meet the needs of the community, from children to seniors, and so this is a wonderful project.” This sentiment underscores the multifaceted role that food resources play—not only in alleviating hunger but also in providing a space for social connection.
As Bonamici pointed out, “There’s additional food insecurity but also a need for people to have a place to get together, and this is going to be a wonderful addition to the Southwest Portland community.” This new center will offer a haven for residents seeking nourishment and camaraderie, ensuring that no one has to navigate the challenges of food scarcity alone.
Looking Forward: A Vision Realized
The anticipated opening of the Neighborhood House free food market and senior center marks a hopeful moment for Southwest Portland. With its projected launch this fall, the community can look forward to a vibrant hub of support, where resources are plentiful, and neighbors are connected.
This initiative is not just about food; it’s about crafting a future where every individual is empowered to lead a fulfilling life within their community.
Stay tuned for updates as the construction progresses, and get ready to embrace this exciting new chapter for Southwest Portland! For more information on how you can get involved or support Neighborhood House, please visit their website here.
