Mission
Welcome Home is a diverse coalition in the Portland metropolitan region that uses its collective resources to create healthy communities by ensuring everyone has an affordable and stable home. We use community education and collaboration, advocacy, and research to advance housing policies that enable all our neighbors to thrive.
Vision
We envision a future of housing options that meet the real needs of people in our region. We strive to eliminate inequities in race and class in housing outcomes.
History
Rents were increasing up to 30%, vacancy rates were at 2%, homeless shelters were becoming more packed, and communities of color were becoming increasingly displaced.
JOIN, Street Roots, ROSE Community Development Corporation, Housing Oregon, Community Alliance of Tenants, and the Native American Youth and Family Center decided to form a coalition to bring together the many voices concerned with the lack of funding at a time when cuts to safety net services were devastating.
The director hired, built out basic infrastructure on a shoestring budget; researched national approaches and best practices to generate revenue at the local level.
Developed leadership training and speaker’s bureau to support community members to play a key role as advocates - testify, share their story, and campaign.
Increased Portland’s TIF affordable housing set aside from 30% to 45% generating $67 million more over 10 years.
Passed $1.2 million annually in lodging taxes dedicated to Portland’ Housing Investment Fund.
Advocated for increase in City of Portland’s affordable housing budget to $64 million over the next decade.
Passed a construction excise tax in the City of Portland that will generate bringing in $8 million annually.
Conducted a public research poll that showed 62% interest in a property tax and bond to fund affordable housing.
Mobilized over 5,000 volunteers in a campaign that secured $258 million in new funds for the city of Portland.
Inform the development of a bond framework for the City of Portland Housing Bureau.
Increased Portland’s TIF affordable housing set aside from 30% to 45% generating $67 million more over 10 years.
Passed $1.2 million annually in lodging taxes dedicated to Portland’ Housing Investment Fund.
Advocated for increase in City of Portland’s affordable housing budget to $64 million over the next decade.
Passed a construction excise tax in the City of Portland that will generate bringing in $8 million annually.
Begin advocacy for Metrowide regional housing for $652 million.
Served as a key stakeholder on Yes for Affordable Housing campaign.