Sheltering Portland: Innovative Solutions for homeless people

Portland city commissioners and Multnomah County leaders have revealed plans for a new low-barrier, adult shelter managed by Urban Alchemy, a California-based company overseeing other homeless villages in the city. The shelter will offer round-the-clock staffing, daily meals, case workers, and health services from Central City Concern, Health Share, and CareOregon. Residents will need to adhere to security measures, including checking in and out and a no-weapons policy. Kirkpatrick Tyler from Urban Alchemy expressed support for the shelter, emphasizing the importance of innovative solutions in the fight against homelessness. The shelter, known as TASS, is set to welcome residents soon on a referral. (Photo image QR)https://search.app.goo.gl/HgytK1u

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12059547/Shocking-images-Portlands-homeless-shows-encampments-taking-area.html?ito=email_share_article-top

Sharing this article I read and I think everyone is more determined than ever on this solution or most people are because people got tired of seeing the sad fact that they can’t like walk on sidewalks without running into tents or seeing needles and stuff on the ground while walking to her kids, The homeless population in Multnomah County, which includes Portland, has seen a significant increase over the years. By 2024, the number of homeless individuals in the region had surged to over 11,000 people. This dramatic rise reflects a trend seen in many West Coast cities, where homelessness has been on the rise in recent years. 

Factors contributing to this increase in the homeless population include a lack of affordable housing, economic challenges, mental health issues, substance abuse, and systemic issues that impact vulnerable populations. The growing gap between housing costs and income levels has made it increasingly difficult for individuals and families to secure stable housing, leading to a rise in homelessness within the region.

Addressing the complex and interconnected issues contributing to homelessness requires a multifaceted approach that involves expanding shelter capacity, increasing affordable housing options, providing comprehensive support services, and fostering collaboration among government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community stakeholders. By understanding the root causes of homelessness and implementing strategies to address them, cities like Portland can work towards reducing homelessness and supporting individuals in need.

In conclusion, the rise in Portland's homeless population to over 11,000 individuals underscores the urgent need for comprehensive and collaborative solutions to address this pressing issue. By sharing this blog and raising awareness about the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness, we can collectively advocate for change and support initiatives that aim to provide shelter, safety, and pathways to housing for our most vulnerable community members.

Together, we have the power to make a difference and create a more inclusive and compassionate society. Let's amplify our voices, spread the word, and take action to be part of the solution. Share this blog with your friends, family, and social networks, and join the conversation on how we can work together to combat homelessness in Portland and beyond.

Remember, every effort, big or small, contributes to positive change. Let's start today!

Eugene’s Housing Opportunities and the Fight against NIMBYism

   

In the city of Eugene, Oregon, lies an initiative that stands as a beacon of hope for those experiencing

homelessness: Safe Sleep Sites. These selected spaces offer temporary shelter, access to resources,

transition programs and much more. However, behind the noble intentions of these sites lies a persistent

challenge: NIMBYism, or Not In My Backyard.

Oregon's homeless population has been on a steady incline with minor decreases and its largest spike so far seen in 2022. (Chart courtesy of the

Department of Housing and Urban Development)

    In recent years, Eugene has witnessed a surge in its homeless population, a trend mirrored in many cities across

the United States. The rise was drastic with the financial burdens brought on by COVID-19. While during the

pandemic there were many resources and a blind eye to the camps that were set up, in recent years this has

become more of an issue. As shelters struggle to accommodate the growing numbers, innovative solutions have

emerged, among them, Safe Sleep Sites. These sites often consist of tents and land for cars or RV’s to park

legally. In addition to access to land they also offer connections with support services. While in the past Eugene has failed to present its citizens with safe and legal land to camp at, this will hopefully be a turning point.

     However, the implementation of Safe Sleep Sites has not been without its obstacles. NIMBYism, fueled by concerns over property values, safety, and aesthetics, has presented a formidable barrier to the establishment of these vital resources. These issues can be seen all around the country and are in need to be addressed in order to help rectify the issues many face

Despite the challenges posed by NIMBYism, Eugene has pressed forward with its commitment to providing safe and supportive spaces for those experiencing homelessness. Organizations like Opportunity Village Eugene (OVE) have led the way, pioneering the concept of micro-housing communities as a sustainable solution to homelessness. These communities, consisting of tiny homes and communal facilities, offer residents stability, community support, and a sense of belonging. They are supporting these individuals and connecting them to community activities and helping transition them from these tiny houses to permanent housing.

Moreover, the success of initiatives like OVE has demonstrated that the fears associated with Safe Sleep Sites are often unfounded. Contrary to popular belief, these sites can enhance rather than detract from the fabric of neighborhoods. Studies have shown that well-managed Safe Sleep Sites can actually reduce crime rates in surrounding areas by providing stable housing and support services to vulnerable individuals. People just want a place to feel safe and belong, when that is achieved they can focus on personal growth and being vital assets to their communities. 

As Eugene continues to grapple with the twin challenges of homelessness and NIMBYism, the importance of Safe Sleep Sites as a lifeline for vulnerable individuals cannot be overstated. These sites represent more than just temporary shelters; they symbolize a commitment to human dignity, empathy, and solidarity.

By overcoming the barriers posed by NIMBYism and embracing innovative solutions, Eugene stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when compassion triumphs over fear.

Doggie Dots: Empowering Students with Disabilities Through Entrepreneurship

        

At Aloha High School, the specialized programs are staffed by dedicated and inspirational individuals in their field. As a Paraeducator who has witnessed their devotion over the past few weeks, I can attest that despite limited resources and staffing shortages, these teachers not only persevere but excel. They are committed to providing inclusive and empowering educational opportunities for all students, believing that every student deserves to develop essential job readiness skills and explore their full potential in a supportive environment. This commitment is evident both in the classroom and in the interpersonal relationships between students and teachers

Currently, the staff are spearheading an initiative to empower 50-60 students with disabilities by equipping them with job readiness skills and fostering independence, confidence, and a sense of belonging within our school community through school-based businesses. One such venture, Doggie Dots, has already materialized in the SRC classroom.

    Doggie Dots is a dog treat business designed to teach students crucial life and job readiness skills while also generating funds for their field trips and classroom supplies. Under the guidance of their teacher, students learn a variety of skills including food preparation, product packaging, and money handling. This initiative stemmed from a simple idea and a recognition of the need for students to gain exposure to real-world job skills, emphasizing the importance of preparing students for independent

living.

Excitingly, the success of Doggie Dots has inspired the school to embark on new projects with the support of the community and the dedication of the SCC teacher. Funds have been raised to establish student-run enterprises such as a coffee cart and a screen printing business. These initiatives offer invaluable opportunities for students and are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the teachers who prioritize the success of their students above all else.

This program is not only transformative for the students involved but also serves as a model for inclusive education. In many cases, secondary education for students with disabilities fails to adequately prepare them for post-school life, often directing them towards, as stated in an article about student transitions, “sheltered workshops and segregated living arrangements”. However, the teachers at Aloha High School are challenging this status quo by empowering their students to strive for independence and fulfilling work.

As we strive to support these students in their endeavors, I encourage you to learn more about the program and explore ways to get involved through the link provided below. 

Homeless Family Resources

 

Photo By EO PDX

Oregon has led the nation in homelessness among families and youth in 2023 as well as Portland having the highest percentage of unsheltered families at 74%. Portland was the only major city to report more than half of homeless families with children being unsheltered. Since 2007, Oregon has been reported to have the highest rate of unsheltered family homelessness. We also have the sixth highest rate of homelessness among families with children and the highest percentage of unsheltered and unaccompanied youth, which increased about a third from 2022 to 2023.

In 2023 alone, more than 1,400 young adults and children experienced homelessness. Of those, 70% were aged 18-24. There has been a 16% increase from 2022 to 2023 of Oregon families experiencing homelessness. We also have the second highest percentage of people experiencing homelessness, those unsheltered at 65% which is about 13,000 of 20,000 total homeless residents in 2023.

Below are some shelters as well as resources that help with health, housing, education, counseling, and many others for families and youth.

https://familypromise.org/

https://www.hudexchange.info/homelessness-assistance/family-homelessness/

https://nayapdx.org/services/critical-services/homeless-youth-services/

https://janusyouth.org/homeless-youth/

https://outsidein.org/young-adult-services/

https://www.homeplateyouth.org/

Affordable and sustainable Housing: A crucial Step toward Ending Homelessness

Affordable and sustainable Housing: A crucial Step toward Ending Homelessness 

The government and those in positions of authority play a crucial part in putting an end to homelessness and providing general support to those who suffer with this issue. Because the government has both the authority and financial means to make any changes. We have been promised for years that there will be affordable housing and that those who are homeless will be able to find a place to live. Numerous individuals who wanted to secure the votes of people for any elected office, including governor and president, have pledged to make this happen. However, millions of people are still homeless as of right now in our country. There are many benefits to affordable housing, not just for those who are homeless but also for everyone else who are looking for affordable housing.

Regrettably, one of the main causes of homelessness in the United States is the high cost of renting. I have seen a number of families who were dealing with homelessness as a result of failure to pay high rent. Moreover, there is a strong relationship between homelessness and high rent. “It is clear that one of the major factors contributing to homelessness today is the lack of affordable housing and the significant increase in rental demand experienced in the past decade.” ( Clark, 2016.) Why doesn't our government even try to make this happen, considering how much money it has? Why it's still not possible to implement the project of providing affordable housing. As of right now, studies and research demonstrate the significant impact that affordable housing can have on reducing homelessness.“ We recommend reorienting homelessness prevention from work with identified at-risk persons to efforts to increase the supply of affordable housing and sustainable sources of livelihood nationwide or in targeted communities” ( Shinny et al, 2001.) The importance of affordable housing for addressing and ultimately preventing homelessness was eloquently explained in this essay. Putting housing at a price that people can afford to rent is known as affordable housing. This will break the cycle of homelessness and strengthen the economy. Despite the fact that there are numerous groups and organizations fighting homelessness, it is evident that they are not successful given the daily rise in the number of homeless individuals. There are many countries our there like Switzerland, Thailand, Iceland with lowest rate of homeless community. What are the doing right that we are not ? Isn't America the greatest country in the world with more power and money ? Why can we use some of that power and money to save our homeless community.

Hopper, K. (2023, December 9). The prevention of homelessness revisited. Analyses of Social Issues and Public Policy. https://www.academia.edu/12335455/The_Prevention_of_Homelessness_Revisited

Homelessness and the Affordable Housing Shortage. (n.d.). https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/2172026.pdf

LGBTQ+ Youth Homelessness

 

Photo By Kaleidoscope Behavioral Health

Of the 1.6 million youth homeless, up to 40% identify as LGBTQ+ which is disproportionately represented by the 7% of the population that identify as LGBTQ+ youth. The main four causes for homelessness for those identifying as LGBTQ+ are family rejection from their sexual orientation or gender identity, aging out of the foster care system, financial and emotional neglect, and physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. More issues are that LGBTQ+ people are more likely to become homeless at younger ages compared to those that don’t identify as LGBTQ+ and that 1 in 4 teens are forced to leave their home after coming out. There is also a difference of LGBTQ+ youth homeless percentages in different states. Around 25-50% of homeless youth identify as LGBTQ+ on the East and West coasts compared to 10-25% in the Midwest. As it is more accepted along the coasts to identify as LGBTQ+, it can be speculated that the youth are traveling to the coasts where they will be more likely to be accepted.

Below are some articles that delve deeper into the issue and some resources that can help stop LGBTQ+ youth homelessness.

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/research-briefs/homelessness-and-housing-instability-among-lgbtq-youth-feb-2022/

https://youth.gov/youth-topics/lgbtq-youth/homelessness

https://lesley.edu/article/the-cost-of-coming-out-lgbt-youth-homelessness

A Path to Charity

By Mikayla Coyier

Michael Smoot, a dedicated board member of Path Home, is deeply committed to ensuring that the organization's staff are well-compensated for their vital work in ending family homelessness. Inspired by Dan Pallotta's TED Talk, "The way we think about charity is dead wrong”, Smoot advocates for competitive salaries for nonprofit employees. Pallotta's message challenges the current norms in the nonprofit sector and suggests organizations adopt business-like strategies to drive growth and innovation. This resonates with Path Home's mission, as they recognize the crucial role that fair compensation plays in attracting and retaining top talent, ultimately allowing them to better serve families in need.

At Path Home, Smoot and his colleagues are committed to embracing Pallotta's vision for reshaping public perceptions and support for charitable organizations. Pallotta highlights the unequal differences between expectations placed on for-profit businesses and those placed on nonprofits. Businesses are encouraged to invest in growth and innovation while nonprofits are often criticized for similar spendings. Smoot and the Path Home team recognize this double standard and are committed to challenging it by ensuring that the organization has the resources needed to thrive and make a meaningful impact in the community.

Using Pallotta's TED Talk as a guiding principle, Smoot and the Path Home leadership emphasize the importance of innovation and investment in nonprofit operations. They understand that in order to effectively address the complex issue of family homelessness, Path Home must be willing to invest in marketing, talent acquisition, and infrastructure. By benchmarking staff salaries against industry standards and striving to maintain a competitive position, Path Home empowers its employees to deliver the highest quality services to families in need. This approach aligns with Pallotta's vision of enabling nonprofits to operate more like businesses to increase their social impact.

Path Home's commitment to Pallotta's principles is evident in its holistic approach to addressing family homelessness. Through immediate shelter, rapid re-housing, and long-term stability initiatives, Path Home provides comprehensive support to families in crisis. By prioritizing fair compensation for employees and involving innovative strategies, Path Home aims to not only alleviate the immediate challenges of homelessness but also create sustainable solutions that empower families to build brighter futures.

To learn more about Path Home, click here.

To hear songs from Path Home's Lullaby Project, click here.

 

Having a Home

 

Having a Home 

Feeling the support of Portland State University is very comforting to many students in need. 

Many students continuing their education struggle with finances, food and housing. My peers and I have used many resources available on campus including the food pantry, food markets and other offerings. There are more challenges in our world, especially when it comes to housing. With effects of NIMBY on communities and available housing, it can be difficult for students to access resources for housing services. Our Portland State University campus offers resources for the following: 

- Emergency Short Term Housing

-Affordable Rent for College Students program

-College Housing Northwest Support

These can help with many situations students may fall into. Emergency Short Term Housing can help with 1-3 days of housing while waiting to get into another housing facility. The Affordable Rent for College Students program works where students can submit an application for discounted rent and help with entry barriers. The third resource is the College Housing Northwest Support program. This can provide support with more affordable housing. 

To access resources for the three support offerings listed above, please visit https://www.pdx.edu/basic-needs-hub/housing-services. You will also be able to find more resources here including applications for utility support and 211 to get connected with more opportunities. 

Weathering the storm: The Impact of Weather on Homeless

     Among the many factors that shape our weather in the Northwest, one stands out: the trade winds from the Pacific Ocean. Depending on their strength as they blow from west to east along the equator, these winds can herald a year of either higher-than-normal drought or rain, known as El Niño or La Niña. El Niño, according to Climate.gov, is generally associated with increased temperatures and precipitation across the US during the cold half of the year (October through March). In the summer to fall, El Niño typically results in higher temperatures but decreased precipitation, potentially increasing heat waves. Conversely, La Niña brings colder-than-average temperatures and increased precipitation during the cold half of the year while keeping temperatures cooler and precipitation lower from summer to fall.

    According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, as of May 9, 2024, we are in an El Niño. This explains why the temperature on June 6 is higher than normal. If El Niño continues throughout the remaining year, we can expect higher temperatures and drier conditions. However, there is a significant chance (49% between June and August and 69% between July and September) of transitioning to La Niña, bringing cooler temperatures and increased precipitation later in the year.

    These weather patterns have a profound impact on Portland’s homeless population. Higher temperatures and heatwaves during El Niño can exacerbate health risks for those without shelter, making access to cooling centers and water crucial. Conversely, the colder temperatures and increased precipitation of La Niña can increase the risk of hypothermia and other cold-related illnesses, highlighting the need for adequate shelter and warm clothing. Understanding these weather patterns helps us anticipate the challenges of Portland’s homeless community and underscores the importance of community support and resources to help them navigate these extreme conditions.

    If the weather phenomena transition to La Niña, the homeless will be in danger of colder-than-normal temperatures later this year. We can use current weather analysis to prepare when we can hand out resources to the homeless. Multnomah County offers information on how to support people living outside during extreme colds. Please visit the site to find out what to do in case you find someone in need of support. https://www.multco.us/care-when-its-cold/severe-weather-and-homelessness

Sources:

https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.html

https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/ninonina.html

https://www.weather.gov/wrh/Climate?wfo=pqr

https://www.planetizen.com/news/2024/01/127117-portland-warming-shelters-close-despite-persistent-cold

The Emotional Root of NIMBYism

The Emotional Root of NIMBYism

     The emotional roots of NIMBYism often stem from deep-seated concerns about identity and community cohesion, as well as fears of negative social impacts. Residents may have strong emotional attachments to the unique identity and character of their community, fearing that new developments will disrupt the social fabric and undermine shared values and social norms. Additionally, concerns about potential negative social impacts, such as stigmatization and social displacement, can evoke strong resistance. 

    Resistance of NIMBYism is often driven by the fear that certain developments, like low-income housing or mental health facilities, will bring social stigma and alter the community’s reputation, ultimately threatening the sense of security and belonging that residents cherish.

    Low income communities and neighborhoods where people of color reside are often the first to be taken over by developers and local officials. They are the ones who have decided that these are the neighborhoods that need change. This often results in a community development or as we know it "gentrification". However, the people involved in these developments don't take into account how it will effect those native to the area. 

    People often fear change good or bad but the negative social impact that is caused by gentrification in urban areas could possibly be causing more harm than good. For many their home represents more than just a physical space; it embodies memories, comfort, and a sense of identity. When faced with the prospect of change, especially change perceived as negative or disruptive, individuals may feel a profound sense of loss and a fear of losing what they hold dear.

    Fear of change is often compounded by a perception that external entities (developers, government bodies) are imposing changes without adequate consideration of local needs and opinions. This can lead to feelings of powerlessness and resistance.Involving residents in the planning process can help alleviate fears by making them feel heard and valued. Transparent communication about the benefits and potential impacts of developments can build trust. 

    Fear of change is a powerful emotional root of NIMBYism, driven by concerns about familiarity, uncertainty, daily disruption, property values, social cohesion, environmental impact, and psychological ownership. Addressing these fears requires a thoughtful, inclusive approach that respects and addresses the emotional and practical concerns of residents.

Concl

Source: https://www.planetizen.com/features/34505-social-functions-nimbyism

Discrimination and Homelessness: The Impact of Well-Being

Homelessness is not just a lack of shelter- but rather a profound state of vulnerability that exposes individuals to various forms of discrimination and societal marginalization. Discrimination against people experiencing homelessness exacerbates the already precarious circumstances, impacting their overall well-being while also perpetuating cycles of poverty and exclusion. We must highlight their systemic barriers and the urgent need for societal change.

Discrimination can manifest in multiple ways, such as overt acts of hostility and systemic injustices embedded within social structures. The research article by Melissa Johnstone et al. (2015) discusses how homeless individuals are often subjected to stigmatization, prejudice, and mistreatment due to their housing status. They face discrimination in domains such as employment, healthcare, housing, and interactions with law enforcement. This experience can take a significant toll on the well-being of these individuals, aggravating existing challenges and contributing to poor mental and physical health outcomes. This constant exposure to hostility and rejection erodes self-esteem and increases feelings of hopelessness and despair. 

Johnstone et al. (2015) state that systemic changes are the most important to address discrimination and promote the well-being of homeless individuals. Policies and programs must be implemented to dismantle structural barriers and foster a more inclusive society. This includes initiatives to combat housing discrimination, improve access to affordable housing and supportive services, and provide anti-discrimination training to service providers and law enforcement personnel. It's essential, especially in healthcare settings, due to the frequent assumption that people within this demographic are often drug-seeking when seeking medical care. Not only is this approach perpetuating stigma and preventing those less fortunate from receiving the necessary care, it can also be traumatizing for the individual. 

Johnstone, M., Jetten, J., Dingle, G. A., Parsell, C., & Walter, Z. C. (2015). Discrimination and well-being amongst the homeless: The role of multiple group membership. Frontiers in Psychology, 6. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00739 https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00739 

One Potential Legislative Solution to the Housing Crisis

    While there are plenty of reasons to think that the housing crisis much of the US is experiencing today will only continue to grow more dire, there are a couple of glimmers of hope that could eventually result in change. One of those glimmers of hope is House Bill 2001, which was passed by the Oregon legislature in 2019. HB 2001 illustrates one of the ways that states can legislate solutions to housing shortages and inflated housing costs.

HB 2001 does one primary thing: it mandates that local rules about housing development change to allow a more diverse array of housing types. For much of the last half-century, most local governments have prioritized detached, single-family homes instead of encouraging denser housing options. While there are many pros and cons to single-family homes, one of their biggest impacts on local housing markets is a decrease in available housing compared to areas with denser housing developments like apartments. Because of our culture’s favoring of single-family developments, most areas have inflated housing prices. 

    Under HB 2001, average-sized cities in Oregon must allow duplexes and other similar types of housing to be built in areas that have been zoned for single-family homes. The effect of this, allowing one more housing unit to be built in a given space, has been massive in the past five years. In a crisis like the one we’re facing today, every little bit helps. In a time when inflated housing prices are pushing more and more people into homelessness, a more diverse supply of housing will impact the lives of so many Oregonians.

If you want to know more about HB 2001, check out this fact sheet from the state’s website: https://www.oregon.gov/lcd/UP/Documents/HB2001OverviewPublic.pdf 

For additional information, visit https://www.npr.org/2019/07/01/737798440/oregon-legislature-votes-to-essentially-ban-single-family-zoning

Common Needs for Children Living in Homeless Shelters and Foster Care

The researchers found that there are everyday needs for children living in homeless shelters and foster care, but there are also varying interventions that can help these kids.

In the U.S., many children are living in homeless shelters and foster care. Both groups have higher rates of social, emotional, and physical difficulties than other kids. There is a lack of information about the specific interventions that can help these kids. This study by Zlotnick and colleagues aims to identify promising practices to help children transition. They used a standardized vocabulary to analyze the literature and find studies focusing on treating homeless or foster kids.

The goal of this study was to analyze the various interventions that are available for kids living in homeless shelters or foster care. The researchers selected only studies that were published between January 1993 and 2009. The interventions that were included in the study were categorized into two categories: case management and mental health. Most studies that examined the treatment of children who were living in foster care or homeless didn't include a sample of both groups. Instead, they focused on the mental health conditions of the kids. There were also a few articles that used rigorous study designs. Despite the overlapping nature of the two groups, studies that examined the treatment of these kids were mainly focused on one population.

Most studies on the treatment of children living in foster care and homeless shelters focused on reducing family instability and trauma. However, there is a lack of evidence-based practice regarding the effectiveness of these interventions on the children in these two groups. This suggests that further research is needed to develop effective interventions that can help reduce the effects of trauma.

Zlotnick, C., Tam, T., & Zerger, S. (2012). Common needs but divergent interventions for US homeless and foster care children: results from a systematic review. Health & social care in the community, 20(5), 449-476.

Foster Children in Homeless Populations

Foster Children in Homeless Populations

The child welfare system is often referred to as a "highway to homelessness." According to estimates, about 20 percent of young adults in foster care are homeless when they turn 18. Also, about half of the homeless population in the country spent time in foster care facilities. Children and adolescents in foster care are usually placed in temporary housing until they can be reunited with their families or adopted. Unfortunately, many of these kids and adolescents fail to find permanent homes.

Out of every four young individuals in foster care, an average of one will eventually become homeless after four years. About 25% of these individuals experience homelessness within four years after being emancipated. The National Organization to End Homelessness estimates that each year, about 550,000 young adults and youth up to the age of 24 experience episodes of homelessness. Over half of these are under 18 years old.

Many different types of homeless youth need different interventions and support services. The experiences of these individuals are complex and require coordination across various systems, such as child welfare, education, juvenile justice, and health and human services. Even homelessness is a complex issue with varying definitions across different federal, state, and local agencies. For instance, the National Alliance for the End of Homelessness defines homeless youth as people who are 12 to 24 years old. On the other hand, the National Coalition For the Homeless defines them as individuals who are under 18 years old. The RHYA defines homeless youth as people who are either under 18 or between 16 and 22 years old, depending on their program participation. Researchers also classify them into different typologies to foster debate. The terms runaways, street kids, transients, low-risk, and high-risk are used to describe homeless youth. These terms reflect the varying backgrounds and experiences of these individuals.

Needless to say, the foster care system in Oregon is terribly organized currently, and it is a massive contributor to the homeless population we have in Oregon. More resources need to be provided in order to achieve any sort of goal of diminishing this issue. 

To learn more information about the foster care system and homeless populations in Oregon, click the link below:

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HSD/BH-Child-Family/SOCAC/HB%202456,%202454%20Who%20are%20homeless%20youth%201%20pager.pdf 

Mental Health and Multnomah Support

As times can be stressful, we often need reminders that we have support. Support is offered throughout our communities in various ways. In Multnomah county, a lot of support is offered from the Behavioral Health Resource Center.

😄Hygiene support. For example, showers, restrooms and laundry offerings

🙋Basic first aid and referrals for medical services 

🙏Support groups and peers who can relate to what challenging times are like

To get a ticket to enter the day center and access resources, there is an outreach van at NW 5th Ave and Glisan street near the Greyhound station parking lot where you can get some assistance. 

For more information, please see the following contact guide: 

Behavioral Health Resource Center

333 SW Park Ave Portland, Oregon 

Phone: 503-988-4100

Email: bhrc-info@multco.us

Webpage: https://www.multco.us/behavioral-health/behavioral-health-resource-center

Self care and Mental Health

By Angelina Megedyuk

You know what they all say: Take care of yourself and know your well-being. You don't know anyone like you do. Mental Health is important, and people should prioritize Mental Health more than they think they should. There is a bias that people neglect mental health and should take care of the physical, but mental health can also be physical if you do not take care of the body the way it needs to be taken care of.

What Helps Mental Health?

What helps with mental health is prioritizing friendships that are stable and healthy. Research shows that having friendships helps with mental health, boosts confidence levels, and makes you secure and trust yourself. Finding friends who will make you secure is essential if you want to increase your confidence. Friends help you sense your belongingness and purpose in life as well. You mustn't have friends who pick at you or sabotage you, even if you feel like they are making fun of you; in that sense, these are insecure people you should avoid.

Talk to a Therapist 

Talking to a therapist is crucial because it helps you understand the gaps in yourself. You know what triggers you or how to overcome obstacles within yourself and be a better person. Talking to a therapist is crucial to finding stability within your emotions and feelings so these behavioral patterns can be healed and you can attract people who are also stable and healthy. It is essential to be aware of these patterns in life and to know more about yourself and the people around you who may not be as healthy as you are to attract.

Movement & Momentum

Movement is significant because that is how people function, but it produces serotonin/endorphins and makes happy chemicals for people to be satisfied. This should not be the only resource for mental health, so of course, try to keep your happiness key with friends who care about you, etc. Mental health is a whole perspective approach that is not just about how you physically look. 

Nutrition 

This is the biggest thing that someone should focus on if they want to prioritize their mental health. Food has nutrients that make us stable and have these things in our lives. It is essential to acknowledge these pieces of information which can make us healthier. It is necessary to recognize information about. Think about an expensive car; the car needs premium fuel to function well. The same goes for your brain. When you eat foods that are high in quality, it will help your brain function the best. It needs vitamins, antioxidants, sunshine, and everything to perform its best. And when you fuel your brain with that antioxidant, it can perform better.

Nervous system management

We all know that in this system of society, it is essential to acknowledge that having a regulated nervous system helps you find stability in your relationships, yourself, and everything you do. For example, if you enjoy always going to the gym, however your body is being suppressed with stress to lift the weights; although it is good for you, it can cause other symptoms like high anxiety, high cortisol, and dysregulated nervous system so that your body can lift the weights, for a regulated nervous system your body does not need to do all of that for survival of course, but balancing out heavy weight lifting with nervous system management will help your cortisol, even having high anxiety levels as well. If this is not managed, it can put your body through a lot of stress and shock and will eventually stop itself. It is important to self-reflect if your nervous system is not regulated. and will eventually stop itself, It is important to self reflect if your nervous system is not regulated.

Resources:

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help#:~:text=Where%20can%20I%20get%20immediate,with%20a%20trained%20crisis%20counselor.

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-food-201511168626