It’s almost unavoidable on the evening news. The level of crime throughout the streets of Portland continues to rise. It’s important to consider the source of criminal behavior and to keep it in its proper context.

Here at Union Gospel Mission, we follow the example of Jesus’s earthly ministry by going to the messy places. And despite the rise in crime, we remain committed to being in these messy places. 

This puts UGM front and center of much heartache and suffering.

Over the last couple of years, the flow of poisonous illicit drugs has contributed to an increase in violence in the Old Town neighborhood of Portland. Most crime takes place overnight, but recently there was a homicide in front of our building in the middle of the day.

On this tragic day, a UGM staff member and LifeChange resident were among the first to respond. They saw a man lying on the sidewalk, originally thought to be an overdose. Unfortunately, he had been stabbed and efforts began to administer first aid. Thankfully, Portland Police were nearby and EMTs were able to take over. Sadly, it was too late, and the man perished. The loss of life is heartbreaking; however, the response from the UGM staff member and a resident is a testament to the character of our ministry.

The safety of our staff, residents, volunteers, and guests shall always be UGM’s first priority. Our staff is regularly trained in how to de-escalate a situation. We are grateful to have had relatively few incidences over the years; however, we remain vigilant. UGM has been in the Old Town Neighborhood for nearly 100 years, and despite the increase in crime, we are committed to bringing the love and light of Christ to the messy places of our city.