For thousands of people in Portland, William Temple House has been a refuge and a place to turn when all other doors have been closed. In the wake of a divisive election season, members of the William Temple House staff affirm our resolve to this mission. In the face of the closed doors of hatred, bigotry, and fear, our doors are open.
William Temple House was founded in 1965 committed to radical compassion for all people. We honor the worth, dignity and diversity of each person by offering compassionate assistance and a safe and inclusive environment for all those disenfranchised and marginalized: for immigrants, for people of color, for people experiencing homelessness, for women, for people of all genders and sexual identities, and people of every age, ability and faith practice. That compassion has guided our work for the last 51 years and manifests itself in every hour of counseling, every visit to the Food Pantry, every customer in our Thrift Store, and every conversation with a volunteer.
Today, we re-commit to that radical compassion and the work that it demands. This includes the hard task of examining our own biases and recognizing the places where our compassion falters. We commit to examining the privilege we hold in our social environment and using it to dismantle barriers to equality. We do this because we know that it is precisely this compassion that can overcome divisions and create a more loving and just future.
If you are struggling with feelings of isolation or despair at the moment, you are not alone. We are available to support you without judgment or high cost. Please feel free to call 503.226.3021 if you wish to speak to a caring professional or volunteer.
We see you, we are here for you, and we will continue to be here for you for the next 50 years and beyond.