Centrally located in a high-need, low-income area of Portland, the Eastside Resource Center was designed from the ground up to bring meals, services, and connection together in one place so older adults can access what they need with dignity, ease, and belonging.

An innovative, flexible dining space designed for choice and connection. With fast-casual service and expanded hours, participants can decide what, how, and when they eat. The new kitchen also allows for culturally specific menu options, fostering belonging and connection. Community input from Karen, Somali, Burmese, Tongan, and Chinese leaders has helped shape this space to reduce barriers and meet the needs of those we serve most.

A commercial kitchen expands meal production and provides a backup for emergencies, capable of producing 2,000 meals per day on the east side. The facility also stores 45,000 frozen and 30,000 shelf-stable meals, ensuring continuity of service during extreme weather, power outages, or other disruptions — keeping our community fed when it matters most.

A vibrant space where older adults stay connected to family, friends, and their community. Participants can attend AARP Senior Planet classes in multiple languages, get device support, and engage in social activities — from virtual trips abroad to intergenerational programs with Meals 4 Kids families and volunteers.

A versatile public gathering area for Meals on Wheels People programs, community rentals, and events. The space includes a dedicated kitchen for catering, plus an attached deck with a fire pit.

With a public gathering space, capacity for community partners to deliver services on-site, and the ability to transform into a warming or cooling center or emergency shelter when needed, this building is more than just a Meals on Wheels People building. It is food security infrastructure, emergency preparedness infrastructure, and a shared community resource.