Health and Human Services
Multnomah County connects local residents with health and human services all year round, but during the winter and especially during times of particularly cold weather, extra services are available for those in need.
An important resource available to members of the community through all weather situations is 211info, which connects people living in Oregon and Southwest Washington with relief services. By collaborating with Multnomah County and other local government, 211info collects the most current information regarding warming centers, day and night shelters and meal services for homeless, elderly or disadvantaged people.
During especially cold nights, outreach workers and emergency responders help direct those who have not yet been connected with a shelter. Dial 2-1-1 (between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m.) to get the most recent information. To support community access to critical information in times of crisis, donate to 211info.
For complete information regarding day and overnight warming centers, visit 211info.org. Three winter warming centers are open seven nights a week through March 31st, 2010:
- Family warming center: 12505 NE Halsey St. Walk-in facility for families with children under 18.
- Women’s warming center: Check in at Transition Projects, 475 NW Glisan, between 8:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. to reserve a space for the night. Call 503-823-4930 to check availability. Only for single women.
- Men’s expanded shelter: Salvation Army Harbor Light, SW 2nd and Ankeny, between 7:30pm and 7:30am. Call 503-239-1259. Provides seating and hot beverages. Only for single men.
County Roads
Road Maintenance staff are operating round-the-clock shifts to respond to storm conditions. When roads are dry before an expected snow event, staff apply an anti-icing agent to key county roads, including arterials and steep roads, to prevent ice from forming. After a significant snowfall, crews use snowplows to clear county roads. Roads are plowed in priority order according to a plan, based on traffic volumes and other factors. Maintenance staff focus on keeping catch basins and drainage facilities clear to prevent flooding during and after a storm. Our snow and ice plan is posted on the Road Services portion of the website along with advice for the traveling public.
County Bridges
The county operates four Willamette River drawbridges in Portland. During a snow or ice storm, staff monitor the build-up of snow or ice on the drawbridges to ensure it is safe to open them. If too much ice or snow builds up on the lift span, a drawbridge remains closed to river traffic until the snow is removed or melts. Drivers should always be cautious crossing bridges during a snow or ice event, since elevated structures freeze faster than a road.
County Animal Services
Staff work at the County Animal Shelter and respond to emergencies every day of the year, regardless of the weather. Staff care for an average of 150 animals at any time. Staff are prepared to operate in any conditions. Preparations include back-up generators and four-wheel drive vehicles with chains to respond to calls about injured or dangerous animals.