Readers voted Central Oregon’s largest emergency shelter as their favorite charity.

Bethlehem Inn, founded in 1999, helps men, women and children in crisis, and gives an average of 75 people a place to sleep every night. Last year, the Inn assisted more than 1,100 adults and children, and served more than 77,000 meals.

“As a community-supported organization, we are very proud to have this recognition, and it speaks to our mission of taking care of one another in our community,” said Gwenn Wysling, Bethlehem Inn’s executive director. “Central Oregon has really stepped up to help those in need.”

Construction to expand the shelter began in July 2017, which will double the facility’s capacity. Additionally, the shelter will have a commercial kitchen for the first time as well as a place for residents to dine.

Bethlehem Inn “is an organization that touches so many lives,” Wysling said. “We invite everyone to come out and see the project the community is undertaking.”

Contact: 3705 N. Hwy 97, Bend; 541-322-8768 or bethleheminn.org

No. 2: Brightside Animal Center

No. 3: NeighborImpact

Honorable mentions:

Boys & Girls Club of Bend and The Rebecca Foundation