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.
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.
Our VOLUNTEERS speak out.
Please take a few moments to watch this short video and learn more about Potluck in the Park.
2023 Christmas Dinner…another huge success!
We served 1015 guests Christmas Eve.