Governor Kotek extends Executive Order 24-02 – Ashland’s Emergency Shelter will stay open through late March 2024.
 
On Tuesday, January 9, 2024, the governor’s office announced that Governor Kotek signed Executive Order 24-02, which will maintain added capacity for the state’s shelter system, rehouse those experiencing homelessness and prevent homelessness. In 2023, Kotek signed Executive Order 23-02, which declared a homelessness state of emergency, and secured emergency funding that allowed the City of Ashland to purchase the emergency homeless shelter property at 2200 Ashland St.
 
On November 1, 2023, the Emergency Homeless Shelter opened. EO 23-02 provided funding for the shelter to operate through January 10, 2023. Working with local provider, OHRA (Opportunities for Housing, Resources and Assistance, Inc.), the City was able to house up to 30 individuals at a time. OHRA offers wrap-around services to residents of the shelter, with the goal of moving them from crisis to stability.
 
“By the Governor signing EO 24-02, the ability to keep the Emergency Homeless Shelter open through the end of March is now possible," stated Acting City Manager, Sabrina Cotta. “During this time, our Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee will focus on developing a homeless master plan. The City is committed to keeping the 24/7 emergency shelter open until March 31st. ”
 
In addition to the extension of state funding, Jackson County will receive $1.5 million in additional funds from OHCS (Oregon Housing and Community Services) for the Southern Oregon region. Initially, the region was awarded $8.8 million:

• Emergency Shelter - $6,795,119
• Unit Access - $1,430,850
• Street Outreach - $1,272,786

This funding will combat homelessness by providing homelessness prevention services. More information at jacksoncountyorcoc.org.  
 
The City will continue to work with regional partners such as OHRA and Access to put the proper contracts in place for operating the emergency homeless shelter. For more information visit ashland.or.us/EmergencyShelter. The Severe Weather Shelter that is operated separately at this site, will not be impacted by EO 24-02.
 
“We are Better Together!”
 

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CONTACT: 
Sabrina Cotta, Acting City Manager
City of Ashland
541.552.2106
sabrina.cotta@ashland.or.us