Oregon once required counties to take care of their unhoused residents. The relief institutions, known as “poor farms,” provided food, medical care, even burial services for those without a home. How does that compare to today's support for people living in poverty? We take a deep dive into the history of poor farms, and also try to understand the complex systems in place to support people experiencing homelessness in Oregon today.

Featuring:
Kami Horton, OPB Oregon Experience documentary producer
Alex Zielinski, OPB Portland city hall reporter

OPB’s weekly podcast, The Evergreen, creates an audio portrait of the Pacific Northwest. We tell the stories of the people, places, communities and cultures that make up this region. It’s a podcast about the place YOU live, the places you love, and the geography you feel connected to.

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