City officials remind citizens about new micro-safe sleep site supporting unhoused individuals

Eugene, OR – Last month, the City of Eugene, HIV Alliance, and SquareOne Villages announced the opening of Rainbow Corner, a new micro-safe sleep site located on City property. The site primarily serves unhoused individuals currently receiving services through HIV Alliance and aims to act as a bridge toward affordable permanent housing.

HIV Alliance Executive Director Renee Yandel highlighted the critical connection between stable housing and health outcomes, noting that HIV infection rates are significantly higher among people experiencing homelessness. Studies show that housing status is a stronger predictor of HIV risk than other factors such as gender, race, or drug use. Stable housing has been proven to improve medication adherence and viral suppression for individuals living with HIV.

Opened in April 2025, the six-unit site features private Pallet Shelters, community spaces, a kitchen, and shower/restroom facilities. Residents will participate in a democratic governance model, similar to that used at Opportunity Village, allowing them to help manage and operate the community.

SquareOne Villages constructed Rainbow Corner with privately donated funds, while HIV Alliance staffs the site through funding from a Trillium Community Health Plan Community Benefit Initiative grant.

This initiative is part of Eugene’s Housing Implementation Pipeline, a comprehensive strategy to stabilize housing costs and address homelessness as outlined in the City’s Strategic Plan.