Homeplate Youth Services: Pitching Hope to Oregon’s Homeless Youth

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During the 2023-2024 school year, over 22000 students in the state of Oregon were classified as homeless. This constitutes about 4% of the state's K-12 population. Children need resources just as adults do so that they may be set up for success. Homeplate Youth Services is one of its kind in Washington County. They are a nonprofit organization that specializes in outreach for people 12-24 experiencing homelessness. 


They have many different programs and services that they offer. They also have workshops for topics like getting help in education, employment, and housing. The most accessible program they offer is their drop in services at their Beaverton and Hillsboro locations. They offer things like assistance in receiving legal documents like birth certificates, signing up for government assistance programs like SNAP, as well as connections to housing and education. They also offer resources like showers, laundry, food, camping gear and more. 


There are many ways to get involved with Homeplate to help your community. There are many volunteer and community events that happen on a regular basis. You can donate things like clothes, shoes, hygiene supplies, and non-perishable food items. And of course, you can donate monetarily through their website. 


Organizations like Homeplate are crucial in helping our youth have a successful life and to make sure that everyone has a second chance!


References:

https://www.homeplateyouth.org/

https://www.kptv.com/2025/02/17/with-surge-k-12-student-homelessness-oregon-advocates-students-share-perspective/

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