In 2020 Angel Mullins came to Central Oregon with her two children, fleeing an abusive relationship. A U.S. Army veteran, who struggled to make ends meet. That left her and her children sleeping in her car, tents, hotels and motorhomes. When Mullins’ children asked her “will we ever be warm again?,” Mullins knew she needed help. 

She called the Bethlehem Inn. Bethlehem Inn is an organization in Redmond and Bend that provides shelter, clothing, food and resources for people experiencing homelessness. According to the Homeless Leadership Coalition, homelessness in Central Oregon has risen by 17 percent since 2021. According to HLC’s 2022 data, Redmond had about 127 people experiencing homelessness.

Bethlehem Inn is a high barrier shelter, meaning that there are requirements for people living there. Those requirements include not using drugs and alcohol, and tests can be done at any time to confirm those rules are being met. Sex offenders are not allowed.

The Inn has a 5-week program that gives people a place to sleep while connecting them with case workers and food, thereby helping them find a place for themselves. If residents meet with case workers and truly improve but need more time, Bethlehem Inn can also give that opportunity. They also provide donated food and clothing.

“The homelessness crisis isn’t ending anytime soon, it’s still growing, and that’s really evident up in Redmond,” said Michael Hancock, Bethlehem Inn Operations Manager. “You see Redmond growing, and the homeless population is as well. So as long as there is that need out there, and we have beds available we need staff to help operate.”

Help Needed

Staff, and volunteers are what keep Bethlehem Inn running — and changing people’s lives like Mullin’s. When Mullin arrived she remembers wanting to give up, but the staff didn’t give up on her. Angel eventually found a job and housing with the help of Bethlehem Inn.  

The Redmond community has its struggles but there are people stepping up to help. “Treat people that you see experiencing homelessness just like any other people, they are no different because they don’t have a roof over their head” said Hancock.

“As you see Redmond growing, the homeless population is as well. So, as long as there is that need out there and we have beds available we need to have staff to operate.” said Hancock about Bethlehem’s need for more employees. 

Bethlehem Inn is hiring. Open positions include: 

• Programs department. This job works with residents doing intakes, drug tests/breathalyzers and case management. Day or overnight position in Bend and Redmond. Day shift starts at $20 an hour while overnight starts at $21. Must be 21 or older.
• Facilities department, which includes building and maintenance work. One position is open. Pay starts at $19 and must be 18 or older.
• Kitchen is fully staffed, but another position may be added later.
• Volunteering is always an option for the kitchen, front desk (answering phones, and such) or facilities (processing donations, laundry, and more). Must be 18 or older though teenagers can volunteer in the kitchen with their family or a group. 

For more details or if interested in any of the positions visit Bethlehem Inn – Shelter for Homeless Individuals & Families or call (541) 322-8768. For more stories like Angel’s go to, Stories of Hope.