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New Resource Center Opens to Help Families Facing Homelessness

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News Summary

The ARCHES Family First Resource Center has opened, providing essential support to families and children facing homelessness. The center offers healthcare access, shelter options, and a safe space for kids, aiming to improve family stability in Oregon. Funded by a $5 million grant, it’s already helped numerous families in just ten days since its launch.

New Resource Center Opens to Help Families Facing Homelessness

Fighting Child Homelessness with a Friendly Touch

A brand new resource center has just opened its doors, aiming to provide support and assistance to families and children struggling with homelessness. Known as the ARCHES Family First Resource Center, this facility has already made a significant impact in just a short span of ten days since its grand opening. Imagine, around 60 families have already turned to this safe haven for help!

A Host of Services to Get Families Back on Their Feet

So, what exactly does this center offer? Well, the ARCHES Family First Resource Center has a variety of essential services designed to assist families as they navigate through tough times. Services include access to healthcare, community shelters, food assistance, and even support for paying rent. Pretty comprehensive, right?

It’s heartening to know that around half of the families that sought help have visited the center in person. It’s not just about getting assistance; there’s a dedicated play area for children where they can unwind and play while their parents receive support. Parents often have enough on their plates, so it’s wonderful to have a space that allows kids to relax.

Setting the Stage for Family Stability

The resource center was announced by a local community leader who believes they can create a much-needed supportive environment. With Oregon having the highest rate of unsheltered homeless children in the country—simply put, it’s 14 times higher than the national average—this center aims to be a shining light for families in need and help them find stability to rebuild their lives.

Located at 1255 Broadway St. N.E., the center is in a space that used to be a Youth Drop-In center. It’s now revitalized and ready to cater to families in crisis. The funding to kickstart this initiative came from a whopping $5 million grant awarded in 2023, thanks to the Bezos Day 1 Families Fund.

Providing More Than Just Food and Shelter

In addition to the ARCHES Family First Resource Center, they’ve also launched ARCHES Nest, a family shelter that accommodates 36 people. Together, these services work to connect families with various housing options. Essential items available at the center include diapers, hygiene products, meals, baby food, and even toys for kids. Everything a family might need to get started on a better path.

Families visiting this center can also take advantage of resources like computers and communal areas, where they can gather, relax, and connect with others who understand their struggles. For instance, one family came in looking for assistance with food stamps, Medicaid, and dental care for their three young children.

A Judgment-Free Zone for Parents and Kids Alike

The ARCHES Family First Resource Center is committed to being a judgment-free space for those who need help. The program manager emphasizes the importance of creating an atmosphere where children can feel safe without facing distressing adult conversations. That’s such a crucial aspect when families are already going through so much.

On-site case managers are ready to assist families in accessing Medicaid and other necessary services, including dental care. It’s encouraging that bilingual staff members are available to help, ensuring that language is not a barrier for families seeking support. There are currently five staff members on board, but plans are in place to expand the team as needs grow.

Looking Ahead

The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency is working diligently to develop policies and procedures that could help replicate this successful model in other communities.

Families in need can get in touch with the center at 503-399-9080 ext. 4045 or even drop an email for case management self-assessments. For those who would like to get involved, they’ve even set up an Amazon Wishlist for donations to support families in need.

As the ARCHES Family First Resource Center continues to help families and children experiencing homelessness, it’s clear that this new initiative is a step in the right direction toward creating a supportive community for those who need it most.

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