Annual Homeless Persons’ Memorial
Candlelight Vigil
hosted by Clackamas County

National memorial commemorates 35th annual event  

On the first day of winter and the longest night of the year, join with local neighbors to honor those in our community who have experienced homelessness and lost their lives in 2025.

The Homeless Persons’ Memorial vigil, which will run from 6-7 p.m. outdoors on Dec. 21 at Liberty Plaza (815 Main Street in Oregon City), renews our community's commitment to ending homelessness. Last year’s ceremony honored 36 Clackamas County residents who experienced homelessness and passed away.

The vigil will include the reading of names, a candle ceremony, along with words and live music to reflect on. 

Since 1990, the National Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day has taken place each year on the winter solstice. Over the past few years, hundreds of cities from more than 30 states and the District of Columbia have participated in the memorial. 

This is the fourth year that a memorial has been sponsored by Clackamas County. This year’s event is co-sponsored by the non-profit Homeless Solutions Coalition of Clackamas County. 

Those who attend are invited to bring new warm socks or a new or gently used warm winter coat to help someone experiencing homelessness in the cold. 

Details: Sunday, Dec. 21, 6-7 p.m. at Liberty Plaza next to the former Clackamas County Courthouse at 815 Main Street, Oregon City. 

Parking: Street parking is free in downtown Oregon City after 5 pm. Additional parking is located at the top of the elevator on High Street – the elevator ride will take attendees down to Main Street. 

Media interviews available with representatives of the support community