progress with cottage clusters is underway!

The City of Salem approved the sale of property on NE Market St. in May of 2021 for United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley to begin construction of cottage clusters designed to address the growing homelessness crisis in the area, specifically geared towards the senior population. The property has seen visible progress over the ensuing months, and construction of the planned units is set to begin soon. Homelessness has grown to become one of the most dire crisis' in the state, especially in the more densely populated areas such as Portland, Salem, and Eugene. The senior population is statistically more affected by financial insecurity than any other age group, as 21% of married social security recipients and 43% of single recipients rely on social security as 90% or more of their income. 

The cottage clusters on Market St. are being constructed as a means to provide low-income housing for seniors, women, and veterans in the Salem area. These durable homes are built to provide meaningful shelter for these vulnerable populations while also providing a much needed sense of community between residents. For more information, application details, and funding options, click here to be redirected to the official page for the project on United Way's website.