Abbey McDonald
Abbey McDonald joined the Salem Reporter in 2022. She previously worked as the business reporter at The Astorian, where she covered labor issues, health care and social services. A University of Oregon grad, she has also reported for the Malheur Enterprise, The News-Review and Willamette Week.
Common rental barriers are keeping a Salem family homeless
Despite having a federal housing voucher that guarantees they can pay rent, Misty Blades, her daughter and caregiver can’t get their foot in the door of a new home. They’re facing the same challenges which are keeping dozens of families from finding a place to live before their coveted vouchers expire.
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5 exhibits to see at Salem’s galleries, museums in March
In March, the Young Artists’ Showcase returns to the Salem Art Association and local galleries will be showcasing pastel work and abstract botanicals.
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United Way plans to add affordable cottages with a state boost
With around 250 people on a waitlist for 10 cottage-style homes, the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley is in the process of securing state funding to add more space for seniors on fixed incomes.
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State police identify driver killed in Monday morning crash with school bus
Luke R. Brittan, 68, died after a crash with a Salem-Keizer School District bus on Highway 22 Monday morning, according to the Oregon State Police. The crash occurred after the school bus made an unsafe left turn, the police investigation found.
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Salem refugee community seeks state support in era of turmoil
A recent memo from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security showed the agency’s intention to detain and question people in the process of getting a green card. It’s the latest of a series of federal policy changes that have stirred fear and stress for refugees living in Salem.
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Salem warming shelter to open Thursday night
Temperatures are expected to reach a low of 30 degrees Thursday night, Feb. 19. Salem First Presbyterian Church’s warming shelter will open at 7 p.m. for overnight guests.
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Church at the Park reports over half of its departing residents moved on to homes, supportive programs and shelters
The annual report from Church at the Park shows progress in its efforts to move Salem people from tents and cars into shelters and homes. The organization is optimistic about the year ahead despite budget cuts.
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Few affordable apartments are vacant in Salem, unlike Portland
In Portland, a mix of market and administrative factors meant that over 1,900 affordable apartments sat vacant as of December. Salem does not have that problem, according to data from the Salem Housing Authority.
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City blocks off portion of Bush’s Pasture Park lot due to car camping
A portion of the parking lot alongside Southeast Leffelle Street on the park’s southeast edge will be blocked off through March due to car camping and abandoned vehicles.
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5 exhibits to see at Salem’s galleries, museums in February
This February, Salem on the Edge’s popular erotic show returns, and the Salem Art Association will have a brief showcase of Ikebana floral arrangements.
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