Founded in 1998 by a grassroots group of journalists and homeless advocates, Street Roots came into being to offer a fresh approach to the conventional news scene. The idea sparked when the founders decided to create a platform that would cover poverty, homelessness, and local issues in a way they felt was lacking in mainstream media, all while creating a unique economic opportunity for unhoused individuals. Today, the publication operates as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is overseen by a board of directors rather than a traditional corporate owner. Today, Street Roots is still run as a community-driven nonprofit and is mainly focused on local news, housing, the environment, culture, and opinion pieces, along with showcasing poetry and art . They're based in Portland, Oregon , and have made a name for themselves among those looking for an award-winning, in-depth take on the happenings in their local community, especially regarding the housing crisis and city policies . One interesting fact: A unique fact about Street Roots is its distribution model, which is highlighted by a special section in the publication called "Vendor Profiles" . Instead of traditional mail delivery or subscriptions, the newspaper is sold by people experiencing homelessness or extreme poverty, allowing them to earn an immediate, flexible income while acting as independent vendors on the city streets.