The Starlight Opens
The Starlight, Central City Concern's newest project, opened its doors in Old Town on December 1. Of the Starlight’s 100 new units, 70 are Single Room Occupancy (SRO), with wraparound support services from CCC and the Native American Rehabilitation Association (NARA) for residents exiting or at greatest risk of homelessness. The remaining 30 units are deeply affordable one-bedrooms for those making 30% of the Area Median Income or less. The project also includes an art space for residents, numerous common areas, and a large courtyard.
Patrick Alexander, who moved from homelessness into Central City Concern's transitional housing before eventually becoming a CCC employee, emphasizes the importance of housing like the Starlight for those transitioning from homelessness: "When they get their keys, they open up that door, and they close it behind them, they sit there and they look and they say, 'Hey, this is me now. What is my next step?'"
"This community will provide a safe place to move from the isolation and fear of homelessness to a place of connection and loving support," said Commissioner Dan Ryan. "That is the culture of this building."
Starlight is the third of five Portland Bond projects opening this year. Altogether, 539 new Bond-funded affordable units will open by the end of this year.
Apply for a home at the Starlight.
(Building photo courtesy of Central City Concern.)
