Covid-19 Practices Update

Our priority is the Health and Safety of our community.

Based on the current situation with the virus, Potluck in the park has opted to continue meal service in a prepackaged format. Instead of ticketing at noon we will begin distributing meals “Grab ‘n go” style at that time as an attempt to curb aggregation of large amounts of guests in small spaces and adhere to Governor Brown’s 25 person gathering limit as well as work on social distancing. This plan was vetted by emergency executive committee meetings and key supervisors attempting to continue serving our guests on a day when other agencies are more than likely closed.

What is social distancing?

Put simply, the idea is to maintain a distance between you and other people — in this case, at least six feet.

Fighting Hunger in Portland.

Rain or shine, 52 weeks a year, hundreds of needy people have a hot meal and a community gathering place because generous supporters like you. Understanding food is a human right and hunger is a human wrong. Every Sunday for twenty-five years Potluck in the Park volunteers have prepared and served healthy wholesome meals with dignity and kindness. The secret to Potluck in the Park’s staying power is the story of its people. Our tenacious teams of career-volunteers have inspired thousands of other volunteers to donate their time, talent and money to fight hunger in Portland. Their dedication and passion has made Potluck in the Park a touchstone for a community in crisis.

WE’VE MOVED!

Potluck has Relocated to the North Park Blocks

We will be in the next block north of the Park Blocks adjacent to the sculpture in front of the Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA). This is between 8th Ave and Park Ave on NW Glisan, one block west of Broadway and one block south of the Main Post Office. This will be our new home until further notice.

Learn more

Sunday Volunteer Sign-up Now Open

Become A Volunteer

Our Smiling Cat : 1930’s Hobo Signs

During the Great Depression of the 1930’s “hobo signs” were scratched on pavement or fence posts in front of houses across the country. The symbol of the smiling cat meant, “Kindhearted Woman” – someone who could be counted upon for a friendly word and perhaps a warm meal. In hobo language it was a high complement; today it still is. Potluck in the Park has adopted the smiling cat to symbolize what we stand for: A safe haven, rain or shine. We have been serving warm meals to those in need since 1991.