Surplus water stations repurposed at City shelters

As summer approaches, the City of Eugene's Homeless Services Team is taking proactive steps to ensure residents of City-supported shelter sites have access to clean drinking water. Recognizing the critical importance of hydration during the hotter months, the City has repurposed a surplus of reservoir-style water stations to address this need, in efforts to ensure safe living conditions for unhoused individuals utilizing these sites. The water stations were originally purchased by the Waste Prevention Program for use at the Riverfront Festival in 2022.

The City-supported shelter sites are part of a broader initiative by the City of Eugene to provide safe, managed spaces for individuals experiencing homelessness. These sites are designed to offer a more stable and supportive environment compared to unsanctioned camping. Recognizing the importance of basic amenities, the Homeless Services Team is committed to ensuring access to clean drinking water, particularly as temperatures rise, posing increased risks of dehydration and heat-related illnesses.

Repurposing the surplus reservoir-style water station aligns with ongoing efforts to improve conditions for Eugene's unhoused population. City-supported shelter sites are part of a comprehensive approach to homelessness in Eugene, which includes various strategies and collaborations aimed at providing more robust support systems.

The City of Eugene works closely with Lane County to implement state funding crucial for improving and continuing the operations of shelter programs. These programs provide essential services and support, helping individuals transition out of homelessness and toward permanent housing and other personal stability solutions. The Community Safety Payroll Tax provides additional funding for many City shelters, furthering the CSPT goal of creating safe and supportive environments for all residents, particularly those experiencing homelessness.

By focusing on both immediate needs, such as access to clean drinking water, and long-term strategies to improve shelter programs, the City strives to support its most vulnerable residents, ensuring their health and safety during the challenging summer months.

Additionally, this work is aligned with the City's broad effort toward  Strategic Plan  goals working to address urgent community needs to mitigate impacts of homelessness and advance climate action and community resilience.

For more City updates visit our City Newsroom webpage.