A New Home in Portland: Building Community for LGBTQ Displaced People

Jun 6

On June 3, Refuge America officially launched its new LGBTQ Safe House in Portland, Oregon, marking an important step in expanding our mission to provide safety, stability, and community for LGBTQ migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.

We were honored to welcome community members, partners, and supporters to celebrate this milestone. Special thanks to our Board Member, Ryan Ashley, whose remarks highlighted the importance of creating spaces where displaced LGBTQ people can find not only shelter, but belonging.

We were also grateful to be joined by representatives from the Q Center, Pride NW, the Oregon Department of Human Services, the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Advancement (OIRA), and many others committed to building a more welcoming Oregon.

Housing is one of the most urgent needs facing newly arrived asylum seekers and refugees. Without stable housing, accessing employment, healthcare, legal services, and community support becomes significantly more difficult. For LGBTQ newcomers, these challenges are often compounded by family rejection, discrimination, homelessness, trauma, and detention.

The Portland Safe House was created to help address these barriers. More than a place to stay, it is a foundation from which individuals can rebuild their lives, access critical services, and connect with a supportive community.

This launch represents more than the opening of a house. It reflects Refuge America's commitment to expanding pathways to safety and belonging for LGBTQ displaced people across the country.