Metro's bag program offers a free pickup and disposal service for those experiencing homelessness. You can use the RID Reporter to let the RID Patrol know of a bag to pick up.
Report a bag
Metro's bag program provides people who are experiencing homelessness with a way to dispose of their trash. The program started as a pilot in the fall of 2018 after Metro engaged local government representatives, law enforcement officers, community health workers and people experiencing homelessness to better understand disposal challenges for people living in camps, cars and RVs around greater Portland. In addition to providing disposal options, the program also aims to reduce litter and keep our communities clean and healthy.
Metro coordinates the distribution of the bags through social service organizations across greater Portland. Pilot partners include JOIN, Multnomah County Sheriff's HOPE Team, Union Gospel Mission, Clackamas County Human Services, Clackamas Service Center, Fruitful Spirit and Washington County Housing and Support Services Network. The bags are imprinted with Metro’s website and phone number. Anyone can contact Metro when the bags are full and Metro’s RID Patrol will collect the bags.
About the video
The video at the top of this page was produced through a partnership between Metro and Outside the Frame. Outside the Frame is a nonprofit that empowers houseless and marginalized youth to educate the public about issues they face by producing films that convey their experience.
Look for more storytelling opportunities and partnerships in the future.