PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — As people hunkered in their homes Thursday to keep the winter storm at bay, thousands of people in Portland experiencing homelessness endured harsh conditions through the night. The Oregonian/OregonLive reports outreach workers fanned the streets before the first winter storm struck, handing out blankets, tents and cold weather gear. The Joint Office for Homeless Services opened three severe weather shelters with nearly 300 beds. But, in the past day, efforts to stay warm and dry while camping led to at least two fires in Portland. People seeking shelter can show up to shelter sites or can call 211 to inquire about availability and arrange to receive free transportation to a shelter.
Structures burn at homeless camps as people try to keep warm
