Safe Blocks May 2026 Community Impact Report

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From SE Division Street to North Portland and the heart of East Portland's transit corridor, each event strengthened community connections and supported safer, more welcoming neighborhoods.

The month began with a Spring Litter Pick-Up on May 1, in partnership with the Division Midway Alliance. Volunteers gathered at the organization's Southeast Division Street office before heading out to collect litter between 117th and 119th Avenues. With gloves, pickers, bags, and safety vests provided-and lunch and water shared afterward-the cleanup offered a simple and accessible way for residents to invest in their neighborhood's wellbeing.

Just a few days later, on May 5, community members convened at Dawson Park for a resource fair centered on housing, health, food access, and overall community safety. By ensuring translation, interpretation, and ADA accommodations were readily available, the event continued its longstanding role as an inclusive space for residents to connect with essential services.

On May 20, Safe Blocks joined Rose City Self-Defense at Midland Library to host a personal safety and self-defense workshop that welcomed teens and adults. Participants practiced communication techniques, de-escalation strategies, and personal safety planning-skills designed to build confidence and empower community members in everyday situations.

The next day, May 21, brought the I AM East Portland Resource Fair to the Menlo Park Park & Ride, a convenient meeting point served by both the MAX Blue Line and local bus routes. Neighbors had the opportunity to access food, health supports, and community programs, with accommodations and interpretation services available to ensure everyone could fully participate.

As part of the continued focus on neighborhood stewardship, Safe Blocks and SOLVE teamed up again on May 27 for a Menlo Park Community Litter Pick-Up along East Burnside. Volunteers gathered near Jubilee Hall to clean pathways, green spaces, and surrounding sidewalks-contributing to a cleaner, safer environment for families, pedestrians, and transit riders alike.

Closing out the month, the FriYAY! Fun Fair brought families together on May 29 at the East Portland Community Center. The event featured youth activities, community resources, and summer-safety programming, offering an upbeat, family-friendly celebration that highlighted the importance of connection in building safer neighborhoods.