Our Mission
William Temple House provides food, counseling, clothing, and household items to Portland-area neighbors to strengthen our community.Our Vision
Everyone in our community is fully nourished—emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
Our Values
We are committed to realizing the following values in all aspects of our work:
Affirmation
We affirm the worth and dignity of all people. We listen and respond with respect and compassion.
Equity and Justice
In pursuit of social justice, we stand with each other. We lift up our clients’ voices, stories, and strengths—and center these perspectives in our work.
Adaptability
We reflect and adapt our services to meet our clients’ priorities. We lead through collaboration and culturally relevant evidence-based approaches.
Sustainability
We believe in the importance of sustaining the human spirit and advancing environmental justice.
Our Story
In 1965, a group of Episcopalians opened a counseling center on NW Marshall Street with a telephone, a card table, and an orange crate for a chair. They named the place after William Temple, the late Archbishop of Canterbury known for his commitment to social justice. Before long William Temple House grew into a trusted community resource offering counseling, food, clothing, and more to thousands of individuals and families in Portland and beyond. Founding director C.T. Abbott, a visionary priest and mental health counselor, led the organization until his death in 1990.
More than 50 years later, William Temple House continues as a place of healing and hope through services supporting the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Today our staff, volunteers, and supporters come from diverse backgrounds, and what brings us together is our shared vision of a stronger community. We are proud to serve our neighbors as an equal opportunity provider and strive to create a comforting place that is open and inviting to people of all backgrounds and beliefs.
Join Our Team
Thank you for your interest in joining the William Temple House team!