Life Change Church Glisan St.

Portland, Oregon is experiencing a troubling seismic episode.   Not a geological event, but a painful shift that has caused over 10,000 people (primarily African-Americans and people of color) to move out of North and Northeast Portland, into Gresham and the eastern edges of the city.  New developments, lack affordable housing, and inequity have all contributed to the difficult displacement of many longtime residents.

Sadly, this shift has not only moved fathers, mothers, grandparents and children from there familiar surroundings, it has also separated them from all the other important things and institutions that build a thriving community. 

For hundreds of years, the church has been a centerpiece of the African-American community. The church in many ways has been the glue that has helped heal, inspire, and empower those in the community.  Sure, the church has its issues, but so does the people it serves. We need each other!

Life Change Church has served North and Northeast Portland for over fifty years.  And we now have an incredible opportunity to purchase a second location-- the old Walgreens located on 162nd and Glisan. The site of the new church is right on border of Portland and Gresham in the middle of a diverse population of people.   The acquisition of this strategic property will allow us to serve hundreds of people, just like we have done on Williams Avenue for many years.

To make this needful vision a reality, we have a short window to raise $250,000.  I was reluctant to make this ask, but I realize that we have made a lot of friends over the years that would like to help.  Thank you so much for your love for people, and your generosity.

 

Dr. Mark E Strong