A look inside Portland’s long-awaited deflection center [Video]

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. — A new deflection center is set to offer an alternative to jail time for individuals caught with small amounts of illegal drugs who qualify for treatment. The Coordinated Care Pathway Center will begin operations Monday, providing medical screenings, mental health support and essential pathways toward recovery.

As drug addiction continues to affect Portland’s streets, community leaders are hopeful the center will deliver much-needed assistance. Tony Vezina, executive director of 4D Recovery, understands these challenges firsthand. 

“You see people in a hopeless state, but you’ve been there and know there is a way out,” Vezina said. “That instills hope in people, making them feel, ‘Oh, I can do it, too.'”

Oregon’s recent law changeallows certain individuals caught with illegal drugs to choose treatment over jail. Previously, these services were provided by mobile outreach workers; now, those opting for …