Foundation could buy former youth facility in Salem for homeless housing

SALEM, Ore. — As Salem faces a continued homelessness crisis, some are looking to convert a former youth correctional facility into a shelter.

The Hope Crest Foundation is eyeing the former Hillcrest Youth Correctional Facility in Salem to house the homeless and connect them with work and social services. They held a meeting Thursday night (Jan. 9) in Salem's First Baptist Church to discuss the plan.

The state is looking to sell the facility for $5.6 million. The foundation made an offer on the property, according to the state Department of Administrative Services.

"I have no faith in the state or the city doing it," said Gene Pfeifer, who helped found the Hope Crest Foundation.

Pfeifer said the offer wasn't accepted, adding that the foundation is considering making a counter offer to close the deal.

"We should have it so the private sector does (homeless services) and the state and the federal government contributes to it," he said.

The City of Salem assessed the Hillcrest property last year. According to a report, staff said the buildings could be used as a shelter or temporary housing. The city said members of City Council took no action on the plan.

KATU News requested an interview with Mayor Chuck Bennett to talk about the project, but he told our reporter to contact the city manager. City staff told KATU News no one with the city was available for an interview, and the mayor did not respond to further requests.

The City of Salem has been trying to deal with a growing homeless issue. In December, a controversial camping ban went into effect in Salem. According to Salem Police, no citations have been issued.

KATU News learned the city did not open additional shelter beds as it had planned by January 1.

Pfeifer said he's concerned with the lack of shelter beds and housing options.

"These are beds for sleeping not having a place to stay and have there stuff safe," he said.