Our Story

In 2013, LOVE INC reached out to 2nd Street Community Church, needing somewhere other than the cold, wet streets for the women in their shelter to go during the day. 2nd Street responded by pushing back some cubicles in their office for women to get coffee and warm up for a few hours. A year later, more people starting coming in throughout the day as LOVE INC asked for their breakfast and lunch bags to be distributed. Gradually, the center was opened up for more hours and became a warm safe place for others to come in, not just the women from the shelter. Next, the center took over the distribution of HUGSS. As hats, umbrellas, gloves, scarves, and socks were donated by the community, they were passed on to those trying to stay warm in the cold weather.

In July 2016, the space was remodeled with dining tables, a computer, and a kid's play area. The pantry became stocked with snacks and soups, while people from the community brought in crockpots full of food on a regular basis. A few years later, the need became greater than the ability of 2nd Street Church to provide, and the decision was made to start transitioning the drop-in center to operate independently, through Friends of Chehalem House.

Today, we provide a safe, warm place for anyone to get food, basic necessities, connect with resources, and experience community. We are so grateful for the people along the way who have made this a reality.