(Use arrows on either side of the picture to scroll through options)
Mission Statement
Our mission is to empower and support individuals in need by offering foster care for their pets. We serve those affected by homelessness, poverty, addiction, and domestic violence. We also can provide emergency pet care during unexpected crisis. By doing this, we strive to not only alleviate overburdened shelters, but also improve our communities by helping those experiencing homelessness find stability, and transition off the streets without fear of losing their furry companions.
The Current State of Things
In the Portland Metro area, an estimated 18,000 individuals are currently experiencing homelessness. While exact numbers are difficult to track, it is estimated that at least 5,000 of these individuals are pet owners, bringing the local homeless pet population to well over 6,000 animals.
For those living on the streets, in tents, or out of their cars, a pet is far more than just a companion. These animals provide vital protection, a sense of routine and responsibility, and a powerful reason to keep moving forward. They serve as sounding boards and loyal friends, creating an unbreakable bond forged through shared hardship.
Unfortunately, our city's support systems are not built to accommodate these pairs.
The vast majority of shelters enforce strict pet policies with a low cap on how many they will accept. Furthermore, there is a severe shortage of detox facilities, rehab centers, psychiatric units, or hospitals in the area that allow individuals to bring their animals.
This creates a devastating barrier to recovery. To access lifesaving medical care, addiction treatment, or a warm bed, an unhoused person is often forced to surrender their pet to the shelter—with a guarantee they will never be reunited.
Faced with the choice between getting essential help and abandoning the one creature that has stood by them, most choose to stay on the streets.
Our Story & Vision
Array Animal Rescue was founded in 2024 by Julianna Mitchell and her close friend, Tracy Hewitt. While Tracy has since transitioned to a new venture, Julianna continues to steer the organization forward independently. Managing the intense day-to-day workload of a rescue alone is a significant challenge, and Julianna’s long-term goal is to bring on a co-owner to help carry and expand Array’s vital mission.
Despite the demands, Array continues to grow. Julianna has recently introduced impactful new programs, including specialized in-home care and a sliding-scale option designed to keep services accessible for families living just above the poverty line.
Looking ahead, Julianna has established a clear 5-year roadmap for the rescue. Her primary goal is to actively integrate crisis fostering directly into the city's social services and healthcare systems. By building these institutional partnerships, Array aims to remove the barrier between pet ownership and recovery, ultimately hoping to reduce the local unhoused population by 20% or more.
Julianna and foster, Bear
Location
Array Animal Rescue
Portland, Oregon, United States