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April 17, 2025
Media Contact: Kim Lippert: Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov; 971-323-3831
New project expands access to supportive housing in rural eastern Oregon
Ontario, Ore. - A housing facility scheduled to open this summer in Ontario will help address the shortage of safe, accessible housing for people facing substance abuse in rural Eastern Oregon. The Victor Fox Cultivate Housing Apartments and Harm Reduction Site, a seven-unit, short-term housing complex, will open an additional place for Oregonians to receive treatment in the region.
“We need to make it easier for Oregonians to access short term care that helps them get into stable housing,” Governor Kotek said. “When there are more resources available in the communities where people need it, we know folks are able to find security and turn the page on the challenges they’re going through.”
This builds additional capacity for Behavioral Health Resource Networks (BHRNs), groups of providers around the state working together to provide comprehensive, community-based services to people who struggle with substance use.
The project broke ground on March 17 and the housing units are scheduled to open in July. The Ontario micro-homes provide temporary housing for 42 people, along with access to medical and behavioral health care. Most residents will stay for up to 180 days before moving on to permanent housing.
The complex is named after Victor Fox, a longtime Oregon Health Authority (OHA) employee who passed away in 2020 after battling cancer. Fox was known for his commitment to affordable housing for those in need.
“We have a great team providing services, and it will be a one-stop place where people are able to get housing and peer support,” said Kirt Toombs, chief executive officer, Eastern Oregon Center for Independent Living. Victor was one of the first people who made housing a priority in our state, and he had the wisdom to know that without secure housing individuals would not have access to medications and health care.”
Increasing access to supportive housing in rural areas demonstrates how the state is investing in pathways into long-term housing, a key goal in OHA’s 2024-2027 Strategic Plan and one of Governor Tina Kotek’s top priorities.
The Victor Fox Cultivating Housing Complex is located at 463 South Park Boulevard, Ontario. Photos of the groundbreaking can be found be found here.
The Governor was not in attendance of the event.
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