Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) has allocated $5 million to the Youth Emergency Housing Assistance Program (YEHA) to support young people and their families who are homeless or at imminent risk of losing their housing in several rural counties. This funding aims to address youth homelessness in these areas. OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell emphasized the commitment to security and stability for the youth, stating, "We are committed to ensuring every young person in Oregon has a safe place to call home," according to official statements.
The YEHA initiative is designed to address the needs of communities with the highest levels of homelessness. Using data from Oregon's Emergency Homelessness Response and the Department of Education, the project team has identified areas where the $5 million funding can be most effectively utilized. The goal is to provide immediate assistance while also helping to address the service and funding gaps often faced by rural regions.
Five organizations across Coos, Klamath, Lincoln, Douglas, and Josephine Counties have been selected to receive funding as part of the initiative. These organizations include the Coos County Office of Homelessness Response, Integral Youth Services in Klamath County, the Lincoln County Housing Authority, the Phoenix School of Roseburg in Douglas County, and the Maslow Project in Josephine County. Each has experience addressing youth homelessness and is equipped with local knowledge and infrastructure to manage the funds effectively.
Mary Ferrell, Founder and Executive Director of the Maslow Project, voiced her optimism about the program's potential to create a tangible difference in the lives of affected youth. "This funding will empower us to expand our outreach, enhance our support services, and build sustainable solutions for the unique challenges faced by our Josephine County community," she stated, as per the state's release. The YEHA program offers more than just housing; it provides critical support for essential needs such as rent, utilities, education, and transportation.
In partnership with local schools, these organizations aim to create a more integrated support system for families, addressing both housing stability and educational success. With an emphasis on long-term outcomes, YEHA seeks to address immediate housing needs while contributing to future stability. These efforts reflect OHCS’s goal to support youth in completing their education and transitioning into adulthood with greater stability.
