New Operator Takes Over Drug Deflection Center | Portland News

Portland News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 4, 2026 · 1m

Multnomah County’s struggling drug deflection center is getting a fresh start — and a new operator. After two years with Tuerk House, the Baltimore nonprofit, the county has handed management to Community Bridges, an Arizona-based org with decades of experience, starting July 1. While Tuerk House’s efforts didn’t move the needle — low participation and completion rates despite a $24/7, $2M+ operation — Community Bridges brings a more integrated, proactive model. Their plan? Seamless care from stabilization to treatment and peer support, with better transportation and follow-up to keep people…