Young People to the Front

Direct Cash Transfer Programs for Youth Experiencing Homelessness Ft. Sofie, Dwight, & Parker

Episode Notes

On this weeks episode guest host Robin sits down for a conversation with Sofie, parker, and dwight to talk about the direct cash transfer pilot program in Oregon. For Context Oregon ranks third nationally in youth homelessness (1,315 youth) despite small population Nationwide youth homelessness increased 10% in 2024

Program Structure

• Oregon provided $1,000/month for 24 months plus a one-time $3,000 enrichment fund to 120 young people (ages 18-24) experiencing homelessness
• Optional supportive services ("plus" component) included case management, job counseling, and financial planning

Key Outcomes

• Housing: 91% stably housed by program exit; homelessness dropped from 30% to 9%
• Income: Average monthly income increased 235% (from $614 to $2,059)
• Employment: Full-time employment rose from 16% to 24%
• Parents: 25 participants living with their children by program end (up from 19)

Participant Profile

• 60% female, 32% queer, 43% Native American or Native Multiracial
• 61% had been homeless for 1-4 years
• 42% had high school diplomas, 40% did not complete high school

Challenges

• $1,000/month insufficient to cover rent alone (Portland median: $1,380 for 1-bedroom)
• 54% felt uncertain about maintaining housing after program ends
• Low participation in optional group services
• Transportation and childcare cited as major employment barriers
• Every $1 invested in supportive housing saves $3.30 in shelter, healthcare, and criminal justice costs