This year, Maybelle Center has increasingly been recognized for our innovative approaches to care. We were one of only two nonprofits selected by county and state leaders to host a delegation from Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare. And during a housing provider meeting this summer with Mayor Keith Wilson, participants lifted up Macdonald Residence Assisted Living as exactly the kind of solution Portland needs more of.
One of the biggest projects of 2025 has been adding a second elevator at Macdonald Residence. Most Residents rely on mobility devices, but older elevators weren’t built to handle the weight of today’s powerchairs and the rising number of users. Breakdowns became all too common—leaving Residents stranded, staff using emergency evacuation chairs to assist Residents up and down stairs, and dignity lost. At one point, a Resident even shared with the media that it left them feeling ‘like a prisoner.’ Not the kind of publicity we want!
Thanks to generous supporters, like you, we’re just weeks away from solving this. With less than 10% left to raise on the $5.5 million project, our second elevator is about to open—restoring independence, reducing wait times, and providing consistent access to every floor. I hope you’ll join me at our Ribbon-Cutting Celebration on January 22, 2026.
Of course, challenges remain. Operating a 100% Medicaid assisted living facility grows more complex each year, especially as more Residents arrive with acute health needs after experiencing chronic houselessness, mental health challenges, or substance use. Starting in November, an increased State contract will help address rising care costs, but your partnership remains essential to bridge the gap between funding and the true cost of care.
As we look ahead to 2026 and beyond, the need for safe, affordable housing and true belonging in Portland is only increasing.
Together—with resilience—we can meet it.
