Oregon’s Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program launched a pilot in February 2023, offering $1,000 monthly payments to 120 homeless individuals aged 18 to 24 across Multnomah, Clackamas, and Deschutes counties. The program ran for two years, aiming to support youth in securing stable housing. By the end of the pilot, most participants had successfully found housing.
The direct cash assistance was intended to address immediate financial barriers faced by homeless youth. The program’s positive outcomes suggest that providing unrestricted funds can be an effective tool in reducing youth homelessness.
**Why this matters**
Youth homelessness is a persistent challenge that can lead to long-term negative outcomes in health, education, and employment. Programs that offer direct financial support help address urgent needs and provide stability, which is critical for young people to rebuild their lives. This pilot’s success may inform future policies and funding strategies aimed at reducing homelessness among vulnerable populations.
Source: News Source