Trying to find some answers, Robin left everything he knew in west Texas and took a Greyhound bus to Portland to trace his roots. After a short time living in hotel rooms, he found himself broke and out of options. Desperate, he called 211 and soon found himself at the Union Gospel Mission in Portland.

Sandra, 76 years old, bright, funny and warm…a joy to be around. Sandra has been living in her car for over a year.

We consider the “fun” of Operation Overcoat as essential as the food and clothing we distribute. Life on the street can be cold, lonely and isolating. The daily stress to meet basic needs and to stay safe can be intolerable. At Operation Overcoat, we want to provide our neighbors in need a respite from the grind.

Chris, a Portland native, was a shy child. In college Chris found that alcohol gave him confidence and helped him develop a social life. Soon the casual drinking became a chronic problem.

https://youtu.be/z6lSJw5JDak