Portland, Ore. – A recent survey commissioned by the city’s ombudsman and auditor shows that a majority of guests at the city‑funded alternative shelters feel their complaints are not being handled appropriately. The study, which interviewed over 200 shelter residents, highlighted issues ranging from theft to sexual harassment.
Key findings
The survey identified that 52% of respondents believed staff failed to properly address the problems they reported. Guests cited delayed or inadequate responses to allegations of theft, sexual harassment and other safety concerns. The report also noted complaints about so‑called involuntary exits and general facility conditions.
Urban Alchemy’s role
Approximately half of Portland’s alternative shelters are operated by the nonprofit Urban Alchemy. While the survey does not name specific shelters, prior reporting by FOX 12 has linked Urban Alchemy sites to allegations of drug dealing, theft and sexual violence. In May, the Portland City Council called for increased oversight of the shelter system after those allegations surfaced.
Guest experiences
One guest, Naresh Mall, who stays at an Urban Alchemy‑run shelter, described an assault he reported to shelter leadership. “I was told by the director, go ahead and fill out a grievance, we’ll make sure, you know, he gets kicked out. Because obviously we don’t tolerate assault. We don’t tolerate that kind of thing at all,” Mall said. He added that the individual who assaulted him was never removed from the shelter.
Preference for shelter over street life
Despite the complaints, the survey found that a majority of guests still prefer staying in an alternative shelter to being on the streets. This suggests that, even with operational challenges, the shelters provide a critical safety net for Portland’s homeless population.
City response
City officials emphasized that the survey’s findings will inform future oversight and improvements. The ombudsman’s office plans to work with shelter operators, including Urban Alchemy, to address the identified gaps in complaint handling and to ensure that safety protocols are consistently applied.
What’s next?
The city has not yet announced specific policy changes, but the report’s release is expected to prompt further discussion at upcoming council meetings. Stakeholders, including nonprofit partners and advocacy groups, are urging the city to adopt clearer grievance procedures and stronger accountability measures for shelter staff.
Original reporting: KPTV FOX 12 Portland (news) — read the source article.
