Parkrose ‘Preparedness Fair’ helps residents get ready for winter

Discover what those who attended this outer East Portland event received, and what they learned from experts who came to share their knowledge …

At the front door of Parkrose High School, welcoming guests to the Winter Preparedness Fair, are Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability Equity and Engagement Manager, Harmonee Dashiell, with her son, Paxton Rios — and the bureau’s Engagement Coordinator, Wing Grabowski.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

Having promoted their fair with the slogan “Winter is coming – are you ready?”, the Community Services Network (CSN) Winter Preparedness Fair — on Saturday, November 15, at Parkrose High School — attracted hundreds of attendees.

Exhibitor’s tables were set up in Parkrose High’s Atrium, where experts provided expertise, tips, and resources for attendees.

Welcoming guests are Community Services Network Program Lead Marin Ricketson, and the organization’s’ Community Engagement Specialist — Berryl Omollo.

“At our three-hour Winter Preparedness Fair today in Parkrose, we’re providing just so many resources to outer East Portland residents, including giving away warm coats for kids,” CSN Program Lead Marin Ricketson exclaimed.

“But, more than that, we’re connecting families with resources — such as those provided by our area nonprofit organizations, and government agencies,” Ricketson told East Portland News.

NW Natural Energy Equity Program Manager Cecelia Tanaka, and Safety Programs Manager Safety Specialist David “DJ” Coiteux, show visitors how to turn off natural gas outside their residences, in case of an emergency.

Also with NW Natural, Michelle Poole and Liam Martinez give away free winter weatherization kits.

“In addition to exhibitors at tables, we’re also offering weatherization workshops — and partners are giving out winter weatherization kits to those who need them,” she continued. “And, in conjunction with that, we’re helping people sign up for utility bill discounts!”

Nisse Peng from Safeway Pharmacy gives a free flu shot to Parkrose neighbor Cheryl Williamson.

“Yes! There is a free lunch!” confirms volunteer Mameyaa Mensa Arthur, with bean and cheese burritos in hand.

In addition to a free bean-and-cheese-burrito lunch, volunteers were distributing packaged food and vegetables to guests. “So this is kind of a ‘wrap-around fair’ that helps people learn about services that can help them get through the winter more successfully,” summed up Ricketson.

“After people visit, I hope they go away feeling more connected with resources and knowing where to reach out to have their needs met,” she said.

At free food table, it’s volunteer Katrina Dimick helping out.

At this Winter Preparedness Fair, the main sponsors/partners were Northwest Natural Gas, City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sensibility; and contributing sponsors were Energy Trust of Oregon, and the Historic Parkrose Neighborhood Prosperity Initiative.

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