Bethlehem Inn exploring Redmond expansion as family shelter need grows in Central Oregon

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- As Oregon continues to face one of the highest rates of family homelessness in the country, Bethlehem Inn says it is beginning the early planning process for a possible expansion of its services in Redmond.

The nonprofit, which is currently the only emergency shelter in Bend, says the project is still in its very early stages and that no final plans have been set.

Bethlehem Inn Operations Manager Lindsey Clements said the idea is being driven by the growing need for family shelter services across Central Oregon.

“It’s really in response with knowing that we have families who are still outside, either in a tent or just in their vehicle every single night that we’re not able to actually shelter here,” Clements said.

Right now, Bethlehem Inn can shelter up to 10 families each night in Bend and says it is frequently full.

“We are often full every single night," Clements said. "We always have someone on our inquiry list."

The shelter provides private rooms, daily meals, and around-the-clock support services, including case management and connections to community resources.

“When they come in, we can offer them meals every day. We have an amazing private room for them to be in, and just a welcoming space for them to come in and feel like they actually not only have a shelter, but have a home for the time that they’re here,” she said.

Bethlehem Inn says expanding the Redmond facility is part of its long-term vision to serve more families.

At this point, factors such as permitting, timeline, and the scope of the expansion are still being worked out.

The organization says much of what happens next will depend on community support and fundraising.

“This is something that we are really looking forward to,” Clements said. “Any community support that people can provide will help us really start this project and get it going as quickly as we can.”

Financial support from the community will play a major role in determining how quickly the project can move forward.

For families currently staying at Bethlehem Inn, the shelter’s services can be life-changing.

“People really express to us that their lives would have been completely different if they hadn’t gotten the five weeks here,” Clements said.

She added that the organization has seen strong success in helping families move into permanent housing after leaving the program.

“We have such a high success rate with our families going to permanent, stable housing once they exit the program here,” she said.

For now, Bethlehem Inn says it will continue serving families in Bend while working through the early steps of the Redmond expansion process.

Community members are encouraged to stay tuned for updates as plans continue to develop.

To learn more about Bethlehem Inn or how you can support it's mission, click here.