Housing for Homeless Youth - Resource Guide

Housing for homeless youth is a critical situation. 

There are many factors that cause homelessness for young people, such as mental illness, abuse, neglect, and/or a hostile home life. For their own reasons, these at-risk youths flee, often to areas like Portland, where there are some resources available. It’s hard to imagine living on the street as teen or child… think of how much you’ve learned as you got older. Now, remember how poorly prepared for adult life you were as a kid. 


Finally, imagine being homeless and hungry.


Janus Youth Programs is an aid organization and they provide a multi-faceted package of resources to help at-risk youth. According to Janus’ homepage, they serve 43,000 meals to homeless youth a year. Additionally, they’ve awarded 160 scholarships since 2001! However Janus isn’t alone in its outreach. 


Here are some other Portland/NW-based services:


Multnomah County has a comprehensive page with resources linked. Call 211!


Oregon DHS also has a full-featured list of resources, including 211info.


Portland’s Government webpage also has info.


What can you do to help directly? Consider donating, getting involved with the programs, or ensuring these resources are known in your area. If you’re unable to help in person, consider printing out flyers and distribute them in areas where they might help. 


Even a classic phone number tear-off flyer could be a huge help to a hungry child.


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