When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Rose Haven Day Shelter and Community Center
Why Rose Haven Day Shelter and Community Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Rose Haven Day Shelter and Community Center stands as a vital refuge in Portland, Oregon, offering comprehensive day shelter services exclusively to women, children, and gender non-conforming individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty. Founded in 1997 and celebrating over 27 years of service, Rose Haven has developed an environment of safety, dignity, and healing rooted in trauma-informed care. This medium-sized organization is distinguished by its inclusive, femme-centric approach designed to address the unique challenges faced by its guests, particularly those stemming from gender-based violence and trauma. The newly expanded facility reflects a commitment to restoring dignity, featuring spaces crafted to encourage comfort and community connection. Guests can access a broad array of services including nutritious meals, clothing, hygiene facilities (showers and restrooms), mail services with secure mailboxes, and first aid. Beyond basic needs, Rose Haven facilitates emotional support and community engagement through educational programs, healing groups, advocacy, and socialization opportunities. Notably, it designates Wednesday afternoons as Family Afternoons, offering a welcoming atmosphere tailored for guests with minor children. Hospitality hours throughout the week create accessible windows for guests to receive assistance, connect with volunteers and staff, and build valuable relationships. Rose Haven’s mission centers on fostering safety, stability, love, health, and ultimately, pathways to permanent housing, empowering guests to break the cycle of homelessness and rebuild their lives. This unique and compassionate center is a welcoming community within Portland that bridges gaps and transforms lives.
Here's what people think of Rose Haven Day Shelter and Community Center
As of recent, Rose Haven Day Shelter and Community Center holds a 4.6-star rating based on 91 reviews.
Customer reviews of Rose Haven Day Shelter and Community Center reflect a strong appreciation for the compassionate and trauma-informed environment it provides. Users frequently highlight the facility's welcoming atmosphere and the respectful treatment they receive from staff and volunteers, who are praised for their dedication and understanding of complex trauma associated with homelessness and gender-based violence. Positive reviews often commend Rose Haven's comprehensive range of services, from basic necessities like meals, showers, and clothing to valuable support for obtaining identification and housing, emphasizing the shelter’s role in enabling guests to regain independence and stability. Guests also note the importance of community-building activities and the comforting sense of belonging Rose Haven promotes. On the other hand, some negative feedback includes occasional concerns about limited operating hours and the challenges of meeting the high demand for services given the facility's size. A few users have mentioned waiting times or the need for expanded resources to serve guests more effectively. Despite these concerns, the overall sentiment remains highly favorable, underscoring Rose Haven’s vital role in Portland’s social service landscape. Its 4.6-star rating out of 91 reviews signifies consistent quality and effectiveness in supporting a marginalized population. In conclusion, reviews present Rose Haven as a trustworthy, life-changing sanctuary that balances resource constraints with a heartfelt commitment to guest well-being and community empowerment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jared Walter
This place is a really nice church. They help women out with a lot of things. As you can see in my pictures are really concerned about this corona. They're taken all cautious. The church also has church also. They take donations.
May Aparicio
I love Rose Haven. I began accessing services there after leaving a very abusive relationship. I was able to find myself after accessing a safe space and also mental health services. I had to stop going when my dog Honey passed, as I had so many memories of how loved he was there and how sweet all the ladies were with him. I truly felt like I was in a safe haven there. I was able to heal and laugh and finally connect with other woman who had also been broken. I just am so so thankful for this space. I am now in recovery, I am going to start a healing business and all because I was able to heal. And be surrounded by lovely woman. I am just so thankful for this Non-profit. It changed my life 🥰😘😍🌹🌹🌹🌹
Lacey Quinn
Rose haven is a life saver. They helped me no questions asked before I registered with them. I caught head lice from jeans place and needed lice shampoo cuz I had no money to buy it. They promptly gave me lice shampoo so I could get rid of lice. And they got me a new bag cuz mine was torn, falling apart. It's nice that they have place like this for females. I am on run from male abuser so I can't go to homeless feeds etc... that my abuser might show up at and I know many females can relate to this. One thing I would suggest is a table with long row of plug ins so more people can charge devices. I seen the charger on the floor but one girl swooped in and hogged the whole thing. Some clients are rude or act wild but there's some nice ones too. Rose haven is run very well and I like how they watch and protect the line. I felt safe. Very different from potluck in the park where no one is being monitored, drugs are being sold in line, and you feel like you're gonna be jumped. Suggestion: add bologna sandwich to snack bags. And pass them out more often, some folks can't get ebt at all. But thank you guys for being there on my journey as homeless in portland. You rock!
Mica Saint Michael
I went here in crisis today at 11:25am and it was completely empty, but I got turned away because they were “closed”. The woman at the front scoffed at me, aggressively circled something on a hand out and said I could “figure out when to come back” based on the paper. Starving, abused, and freezing, and treated like a dog. Not sure where else to turn when this is supposed to be my refuge, and I only had one bus ticket to get there. It’s so unfortunate to be treated like this as a black, queer woman and abuse survivor who has been referred to rose haven so many times. I want to believe it was just this one rotten woman, but I’m honestly afraid to return to get help and trying to find out who to report her to.
Norma Ferrin
Rose Haven has been incredibly helpful during a very difficult period of my life. They are doing a great job. I am forever thankful to everyone there, specially Mo.THANK YOU!
How to reach Rose Haven Day Shelter and Community Center
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Website: None
Why Rose Haven Day Shelter and Community Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Rose Haven Day Shelter and Community Center with your friends? This unique spot in Portland is much more than just a community center—it's a hub of compassion, empowerment, and connection. Gathering your friends here means supporting a place that welcomes women and children who are navigating tough life challenges such as homelessness and abuse. The environment is safe, respectful, and built on mutual trust, creating a profound sense of community. By meeting at Rose Haven, your group takes part in a shared mission that is about healing, hope, and making a real difference. Beyond its social impact, Rose Haven offers a welcoming, open-door space where people come together to build confidence and sustainable lives. Rallying here transforms a meetup into an experience rich with purpose and heart, while also creating space for meaningful conversations and bonding over shared values and community support.
What can you and your group do at Rose Haven Day Shelter and Community Center? The center provides a wide array of activities and services tailored to support both its community members and visitors who want to get involved. During regular weekday hours, guests and visitors can participate in educational workshops, wellness programs, and community events that foster personal growth and awareness. The center also hosts a shower and laundry program, reflecting its commitment to dignity and care for those in need. For groups, this translates into opportunities for volunteering together, learning about social justice causes, or simply engaging in community events organized by Rose Haven. The environment encourages meaningful interaction among guests, volunteers, and staff, making it ideal for groups seeking both volunteer opportunities and a community experience. Whether your friends want to contribute time, donate needed supplies, or simply spend time at the center to better understand community needs, Rose Haven offers the perfect platform.
Why is Rose Haven a perfect place for group meetups? First and foremost, it is designed as a welcoming space for support and empowerment, which naturally creates a warm, inclusive atmosphere. The center’s open door policy means groups can come with diverse purposes—whether that’s volunteering as a team, hosting small discussion groups, or attending community calendar events. The staff and volunteers foster an environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, essential for meaningful group engagement. The location in Northwest Portland is easily accessible, making it practical for groups to gather. Additionally, many of the activities encourage reflection and mutual respect, strengthening group cohesion as well as connection to the broader community. The practical amenities, like spaces for community meetings and the chance to interact directly with those helped by Rose Haven, enhance the experience. Groups hosting meetups here can enjoy deep, rewarding interactions that extend far beyond typical gathering spots.
What kind of community events and programs does Rose Haven offer to enhance group experiences? Rose Haven is active with a range of activities including workshops, wellness programs, and seasonal community celebrations. These events are designed to educate, support, and uplift the participants, many focusing on women’s health, trauma recovery, and empowerment. Groups can take part in or help organize these events, which range from informative sessions to creative expressions such as art or storytelling circles. The shelter has a sturdy volunteer support framework, which means groups can engage in meaningful volunteer tasks such as helping with shower and laundry services, donation drives, or event facilitation. This makes the center not only a place to meet but a place where groups can contribute tangibly and learn together. The programs revolve around building self-confidence and facilitating healing, aligning group activities with a strong sense of purpose.
How does Rose Haven support volunteer involvement and donations for groups interested in contributing? The center welcomes group volunteering and donations, which is ideal for meetups focused on giving back. Volunteers can participate in a variety of roles, such as assisting with wellness and hygiene programs, sorting donations, or helping with guest services during operating hours. Rose Haven has regular donation drop-off times and maintains a list of most-needed items, inviting groups to organize donation drives as part of their meetup plans. For many, volunteering together at Rose Haven creates shared memories and strengthens bonds through joint acts of kindness. The staff and volunteer supervisors are very supportive and coordinate these activities smoothly, ensuring groups have a fulfilling experience. This makes Rose Haven not just a meetup location but a partner in community service that promotes cohesion and compassion among participants.
How accessible and welcoming is Rose Haven for first-time visitors or groups unfamiliar with the shelter environment? Rose Haven prides itself on an open-door, low-barrier policy that embraces women and children of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring everyone feels welcomed and respected. For groups new to the center, staff and volunteers provide orientation and guidance to help people understand the shelter’s mission and services. The atmosphere is grounded in kindness and understanding, which helps first-timers feel comfortable and engaged. Physical accessibility is prioritized with convenient locations and clear hours of operation, mainly Monday through Friday, which supports planning group visits during daytime hours. Whether your meetup involves learning more about social challenges, volunteering hands-on, or simply sharing space in solidarity, Rose Haven ensures all guests and groups feel included and valued. This thoughtful approach makes it easy for friends and families to choose Rose Haven as a meaningful, supportive place for their gatherings.
What makes Rose Haven a standout choice compared to typical meetup venues for groups? Unlike conventional spaces such as restaurants, parks, or event halls, Rose Haven offers a profound community impact dimension. Your group meetup is not just social—it is transformative. The center’s focus on supporting vulnerable populations and facilitating healing creates an environment rich with purpose that deepens group connections. Here, groups learn about resilience and empowerment firsthand, gaining insights into the lives of women and children overcoming hardship. The combination of service programs, community events, and the chance to volunteer means every meetup has the potential to change perspectives and inspire ongoing engagement. For groups seeking meaningful, socially conscious gatherings, Rose Haven stands apart as a place where fun and fellowship meet compassion and action, creating lasting memories rooted in making a positive difference.
How can you plan your group's visit to Rose Haven to maximize both enjoyment and impact? Planning a group meetup at Rose Haven is simple and rewarding. First, review their community calendar and guest service hours to pick optimal times that fit your group’s schedule, typically Monday through Friday during the day. Contacting the volunteer supervisor in advance can help coordinate any group volunteer activities, donation drives, or participation in events. It's also a great idea to prepare your friends by sharing the mission and values of Rose Haven to foster respectful and supportive interactions during the visit. Bringing supplies indicated on their current needs list enhances your group’s contribution. Finally, consider integrating a mix of social time and volunteer work to balance fun with service, making the experience genuinely meaningful. With some thoughtful preparation, your group’s meetup will be a memorable occasion of connection, learning, and community building.
What facilities and amenities does Rose Haven provide to support group activities and comfort? Rose Haven offers practical amenities like private meeting areas, restrooms, laundry and shower facilities, and a welcoming common area suited for group interactions. The shelter’s layout facilitates small to medium-sized gatherings that encourage conversation, workshops, and volunteering in a comfortable setting. Cleanliness and safety are priorities, with spaces designed to be welcoming and non-intimidating. The center also has resources such as informational materials, staff support, and volunteer coordinators to help groups navigate their visit. These facilities make Rose Haven not just a functional spot for meetups but a warm, nurturing environment where groups feel supported and engaged throughout their time there. It truly accommodates both the practical and emotional needs of visitors.
How does Rose Haven positively influence the Portland community and why does that matter to your group? Rose Haven plays a vital role in Portland by serving thousands of women and children facing homelessness and trauma each year, creating a ripple effect of compassion and support throughout the city. By gathering here, your group connects directly with this impactful work, experiencing how community-driven care fosters healing and resilience. The center’s model—centered on trust, dignity, and empowerment—strengthens community bonds and promotes social justice. Participating in or supporting this mission encourages awareness and empathy within your group, encouraging a spirit of civic responsibility. Engaging with Rose Haven allows your group to actively participate in healing Portland’s vulnerable populations, which enhances community cohesion and builds a legacy of care. This meaningful engagement enriches your meetup beyond socializing, making your gathering a powerful force for positive change.
What are some real experiences or testimonials that highlight why people value meetups at Rose Haven? Many who have visited or volunteered at Rose Haven remark on the deeply fulfilling nature of their time there. Guests often describe the shelter as a "safe harbor" where they feel seen, supported, and respected. Volunteers speak about the profound learning and personal growth that comes from engaging directly with the community. For groups, the shared experience strengthens relationships because it combines empathy, teamwork, and action. These testimonials underscore Rose Haven’s reputation as a place where meaningful connections happen organically. People appreciate that it’s more than just a venue—it’s a community hub where healing begins and hope is renewed, making it one of Portland’s most respected spaces for group meetups with purpose. The 4.6-star rating based on over 90 reviews further attests to the high regard and positive impact the center has cultivated.
In summary, Rose Haven Day Shelter and Community Center offers an exceptional environment for friends and families to rally, meet, and engage in purposeful activities. Its unique blend of social support, volunteer opportunities, community events, and welcoming atmosphere transforms an ordinary meetup into an extraordinary communal and transformative experience. Whether you’re seeking to give back, learn, or simply share time together in a space that values dignity and healing, Rose Haven stands out as an ideal choice. Your group’s visit here will not only foster deeper connections among participants but also help build a stronger, more caring Portland community.