Shepherd’s House Ministries is expanding its Continuum of Care model by introducing Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH), addressing the increase in homelessness across Central Oregon. The newest addition, Cleveland Commons, is designed to provide stable, long-term housing for individuals who have faced ‘significant barriers to stable housing, particularly those with disabilities and long-term histories of homelessness.’

At the heart of Cleveland Commons is a commitment to wraparound case management, ensuring residents receive the support they need to maintain stability. CJ Dezort, Director of Cleveland Commons, explains, “Shepherd’s House highlights the importance of linking residents to primary care, behavioral health support, and substance use recovery services. By addressing the diverse needs of the residents, the project seeks to foster a healthier and more stable lifestyle.”

Shepherd’s House Ministries recognizes that permanent housing alone is not enough—building a supportive community is just as crucial. “At Cleveland Commons, we value the essential partnerships formed through this project,” says CJ. “Our collaboration with the DCBH HOST team, REACH, and especially the Neighbor Impact CES system showcases our commitment. Through our combined efforts, we help residents secure housing and support them in joining the community at Cleveland Commons.”

The PSH model has proven to be a sustainable approach to reducing chronic homelessness. Rather than relying on emergency shelters and public services, it provides long-term stability that leads to better health outcomes and lower community strain. “Cleveland Commons seeks to reduce reliance on emergency services by providing housing and support services, easing the overall strain on the community’s resources,” CJ adds. “We believe this model aids individuals in regaining stability and promotes a healthier community by lowering the occurrence of homelessness-related issues.”

By expanding into Permanent Supportive Housing, Shepherd’s House Ministries is reinforcing its commitment to holistic care. From mobile outreach and shelter services to long-term recovery programs and now permanent housing, we are continuing the mission to help individuals transition from crisis to hope. As CJ puts it, “We are dedicated to providing residents with both housing access and building a community where healing can grow.”