Houseless & Foster Youth

The National Health Care for the Homeless Council defines homelessness as “A homeless person is an individual without permanent housing who may live on the streets; stay in a shelter, mission, single room occupancy facilities, abandoned building or vehicle; or in any other unstable or non-permanent situation.” 
 
Resources in Portland:

Outside In works with homeless youth and folks from marginalized identities, emphasizing health and self-sufficiency. 

New Avenues for Youth works with the greater Portland community to prevent homelessness and provide resources to those experiencing homelessness. 

The McKinney-Vento Act, through the Oregon Department of Education has county-wide resources for young folks experiencing homelessness or those a part of the foster care system. 

The Oregon Foster Youth Connection, a program of Children First for Oregon recognizes that the idea of attending college is often viewed as unrealistic for foster children. Foster Youth Connection provides resources such as application fee and tuition waivers. The program also will provide assistance and instruction as students fill out their FAFSA. This program also allows gets youth between the ages of 14 and 25 to get involved with policy, programs, and practices. 

Want to learn more about financial aid for foster youth? Check out this podcast