In a recent meeting of the Oregon House Committee on Early Childhood and Human Services, advocates passionately urged support for House Bill 3,079, which aims to provide a comprehensive range of services for homeless and unaccompanied youth in the state. The bill addresses a pressing issue, as Oregon ranks fourth in the nation for youth homelessness, impacting thousands of young lives.

Keisha, a Portland Community College student, shared her personal experience with homelessness, highlighting the instability she faced while growing up. She emphasized that no child should have to navigate life without a stable home, which can lead to educational setbacks and involvement in the juvenile justice system. Keisha's story underscored the importance of stable housing, which ultimately allowed her to thrive academically and socially.

Mary Farrell, executive director of the Maslow Project, echoed these sentiments, presenting data that illustrates the dire situation for homeless youth. She shared the story of a young girl named Sarah, who missed critical early education due to her family's housing instability but was able to start school after receiving support from youth emergency housing assistance funds. Farrell noted that children experiencing homelessness are at a higher risk of hunger and educational gaps, which can lead to chronic homelessness in adulthood.

The proposed House Bill 3,079 seeks to fill the gaps in services for homeless youth by providing funding for prevention of evictions and rapid rehousing. This legislation is seen as a crucial investment in the future of Oregon's children, aiming to improve educational outcomes and long-term stability for vulnerable youth.

The committee's discussions highlighted the urgent need for continued funding and support for programs that assist homeless youth and families. As advocates call for action, the message is clear: ensuring stable housing for all youth is not just a necessity but a fundamental human right that can change lives and strengthen communities across Oregon.