Residents of the Kelly Shelter moved into the Medford Navigation Center

Medford, OR – City officials have announced that the Navigation Center is not offering coordinated service delivery yet, individuals residing at the shelter, operated by Rogue Retreat, are able to experience a number of enhancements offered at the new facility:

• Larger congregate space to allow for more room for persons with medical conditions and seniors.
• Five non-congregate family rooms to provide families with separate accommodations.
• Larger shower areas to accommodate families and persons with disabilities.
• Improved accommodations for service dogs including bathing area and indoor kennel area.
• Larger indoor recreation room for guests, including a separate area for families with children.
• Commercial kitchen space that will improve capacity to prepare meals for shelter residents and the Urban Campground.

The move marks the completion of Phase 1 of renovations. Phase 2 of renovations entails completing work on office space where coordinated service delivery will take place.

When complete, the Navigation Center will provide 24/7 emergency shelter access to health services, public benefits, permanent housing connections and other services for unhoused individuals and families.

“Seeing individuals move into the Navigation Center is inspiring,” said Angela Durant, City of Medford Principal Planner. “The City values the partnerships we’ve created with many nonprofit organizations and this Navigation Center is possible because of the collaborative movements we are all making together to address homelessness in our community.”

Last year, the City of Medford purchased two buildings with a $2.5 million grant from the State of Oregon for the purpose of establishing a Navigation Center. Additionally, the City has invested $1.9 million in renovations.

The previous Kelly Shelter location (324 West 6th Street) will now serve as a permanent location for the Medford Severe Weather Shelter in partnership with ACCESS.