Directors' Letter: Hope in a Difficult Time

By Heather Quaas-Annsa and Blake Burrell • October 31, 2025

Dear Friends of Community Supported Shelters,


As we move deeper into fall and prepare for the cold months ahead, we want to share an update on our work and a reflection on what this season means for our community.


Recent policy changes and funding reductions across Oregon are already having consequences for people experiencing homelessness. New SNAP rules are expected to make it harder for many Oregonians to keep food assistance. At the same time, local service providers in Lane County are warning that shrinking budgets will reduce shelter capacity and make it more challenging to help people move into stable housing. In plain terms, need is increasing just as resources tighten.


At CSS, we are preparing for that reality. We continue to operate our West Eugene Access Center, providing showers, laundry, hygiene supplies, clothing, first-aid materials, and Front Door Assessments. Every week, we meet more people who are navigating new or unexpected hardship.

A few updates we’re excited to share:

Expanded Access Center

With the help of community partners, including a generous Lowe’s Hometowns grant, we’re adding a covered seating area, pet kennels, an expanded clothing closet, and improved outdoor space. We are working to consolidate check-in at the Access Center so people can access services more smoothly, especially during severe weather.

Building Renovations at 10th Place

Renovations will soon be underway at our new 10th Place building, and we are beyond thrilled to have a space ample enough for our staff, operations, and client navigation to work together under one roof. This move creates more space for outreach, programming, client meetings, secure storage, parking, and a warm, welcoming environment that helps people feel safe. It’s a significant step in strengthening our long-term stability.

Statewide Progress: HB 3644

We are encouraged by Oregon House Bill 3644, which formally recognizes alternative shelter programs, like our Safe Spot Communities, as part of the statewide shelter system. It creates a pathway to more sustainable, coordinated funding, rather than the one-year emergency cycles that have defined the past. While it doesn’t fix every gap, it is a meaningful shift toward long-term solutions.

How You Can Be Part of This Work

As the shutdown continues and winter approaches, we know the pressure on our community will grow. Many people will turn to CSS because there is nowhere else to go.


If you’ve been thinking about getting more involved (volunteering, sharing resources, introducing us to a business or community group interested in partnering, or supporting the expansion of our Access Center or new building), we would welcome that connection. We’re grateful to everyone helping us keep dignity, warmth, and connection at the center of this work.


Your support, whether through time, advocacy, or philanthropy, makes a tangible difference in someone’s ability to stay warm, stay healthy, and feel seen.


Thank you for being part of this work. Together, we’re helping ensure our neighbors have a warm, safe place to turn during a difficult season.


With gratitude and hope,

Heather Quaas-Annsa & Blake Burrell

Co-Directors, Community Supported Shelters


P.S. We’re actively looking for partners to help gather winter supplies and support our move to 10th Place. If you’re interested in touring the building or organizing a drive with your workplace, faith group, or friends, please reach out—we’d love to connect! Email us at community@cssoregon.org.

News & Events

To stay connected to CSS, subscribe to our quarterly newsletter. If you are a member of the media who is seeking info, contact community@cssoregon.org.

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