Portland Police Say They Are Hiring Homeless Community Liaison

PORTLAND, OR – Homelessness is an issue in Portland that is not expected to go away anytime soon. Recognizing that and the fact that the police bureau – and the homeless community – could benefit from a better working relationship, the bureau is hiring a Homeless Community Liaison.

The person hired for the job will be responsible for interacting not just with the homeless community but with members of the advocacy community as well as social service, government, and law enforcement agencies.

The liaison will also work on developing plans for police response when they deal with the homeless community as well as working with the training division to create an ongoing training program.

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"This position is a critical component to our response to those in the homeless community," Chief of Police Danielle Outlaw says. "This person will influence how the Police Bureau responds to people in the homeless community and ensure the Police Bureau is in line with best contemporary policing practices.

"The Homeless Liaison will also focus on the imperative partnerships we have with social service and other governmental agencies so we are all on the same page."

The City is now accepting online applications for this position until January 7, 2019 at 11:59 p.m. For qualifications and to apply, visit: https://bit.ly/2URVeGo

File photo of a homeless encampment in Southwest Portland via Colin Miner/Patch.