Meet Geeta

Geeta was one of the first residents to move into the Paul and Geneva Knauls Building, arriving at the end of January 2024 after spending nearly two years in temporary housing in downtown Portland.

Originally from New England, Geeta has lived a life as an artist, a member of the military, a mother, and now a grandmother. Creativity has been part of her life since childhood, when she first discovered a love of drawing, eventually leading her to study art and pursue a career in the arts. After leaving the military, she moved west to be closer to her daughter and eventually made her way to Oregon. Over the years, she worked to support herself and maintain stable housing but repeatedly found herself displaced as buildings changed ownership and rents increased.

Through those experiences, Geeta became a determined advocate for herself and for stable, affordable housing. That determination is something she recognizes as a constant throughout her life.

“When I make up my mind, I’m all in.”

After losing housing in 2022, Geeta spent nearly two years in transitional housing before moving to the Knauls Building. As a veteran, she was able to access housing assistance that ultimately helped her make the transition into her new apartment.

For Geeta, location matters. She doesn’t drive and values being connected to the neighborhood and community around her. After years of moving throughout Portland, being able to remain in a part of the city she cares about is especially meaningful.

“I love this neighborhood. I love it.”

Geeta also appreciates the supportive services available on-site and has developed a strong relationship with the team. An outgoing person by nature, she made a point of getting to know staff soon after moving in.

“I’m an engaging person, I like people. And I would darken their door quite often in the early days. So, we got to know each other and I like that.”

Today, Geeta continues to make her home at the Knauls, in a neighborhood she enjoys being a part of.