A first-of-its-kind shelter is coming to Salem. Here's what it will provide

More than 1,800 people in the Salem area are experiencing homelessness — a number that has continued to grow in recent years as the economy struggles and housing costs spike.

And while the number of shelter beds has increased in recent years, there are still more people sleeping in tents, cars and on sidewalks than there are available beds.

Local advocates have highlighted the dire need for mental health care, transitional housing and low-barrier shelters that allow pets and couples and don't demand sobriety or participation in religious programs.

Salem's first-ever navigation center is designed to address those critical needs in the community. The 75-bed low-barrier center is set to open this winter. City officials and advocates say it will be more than just a place to sleep. It will be a unique center to connect and continue mental health services, helping people find stability before moving on to permanent housing.