Living without shelter is not illegal. However, if laws are broken, like anyone else, homeless individuals may face tickets or arrest. Report concerns online.

Do you want to help? Many Salem organizations accept donations to support homeless people. However, avoid dropping off goods at unauthorized spots to prevent waste. Instead, contact organizations first:

• Taylor House, part of the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley, a home for teens and young people who are homeless or in foster care. 503-391-6428
• The Center for Hope and Safety which serves victims and survivors of domestic abuse 503-378-1572 or donations@hopeandsafety.org
• Simonka Place, part of Union Gospel Mission, a women's shelter for area homeless in Keizer. 503-362-7487
• Union Gospel Mission – shelter and service provider
• Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency, a social service organization helping area homeless.
• Shangri-La, serving people with disabilities who are also experiencing homelessness.
• Be Bold Street Ministries, in-person street outreach team
• ARCHES
• Salem Warming Network
• United Way of Willamette Valley
• Church at the Park

• Invested in Safe, Clean and Healthy Salem in Fall, 2025.
• Expanded cross-sector collaboration:  Bloomberg Havard City Leadership Initiative in 2025, which is designed to create a comprehensive approach that intersects with our efforts to serve individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty.
• Invested in outreach van through grant to Northwest Human Services in Spring 2024.

In 2022-23, Salem spent $23.7 million in federal funds on homelessness-related services. This was the community's top concern in a survey.

City's Achievements in Homelessness Initiatives

The City has made strides by:

• Creating micro-shelter villages.
• Helping 432 people to better situations.
• Establishing a navigation center that served 157 guests in its first year.
• Removing an average of 23 tons of trash annually from City public spaces each month.
• Promoting more housing options.
• Offering free plans for accessory dwellings.
• Preserving affordability of 224 housing units at Orchard Park.
• Adding 142 units of supportive housing at Redwood Crossings, Yaquina Hall and Sequoia Crossings.
• Provided land for affordable cottage rental housing for older residents.

If someone sets up a tent on your property:

• Post no-trespassing signs
• Use good lighting and security
• Politely ask them to leave
• Contact Salem Police: 503-588-6123 for assistance

The City removes trash in City-owned areas and works with others for clean-ups. Some areas, like highways, are managed by the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Like many places in the U.S., Salem faces rising homelessness. The City aims to build a community that’s safe and livable for all, but it can't do this alone. The issue is complex, involving lack of mental health support, job loss, and expensive housing. Partnerships remain key City and City Council priorities to create solutions, like programs and housing support.

You might have noticed more people living outside. Here’s why this is happening:

• Not enough income and poverty
• Lack of affordable housing
• Mental illness and substance abuse
• Foreclosures and domestic violence

Homelessness impacts everyone, including youth, families, and those escaping unsafe environments. Understanding these causes helps us see why it's crucial to address them.