The Oregon Department of Human Services recently evaluated the first phase of a pilot program that gives $1,000 a month to youth experiencing homelessness. So far, the direct cash transfer program is producing promising results, including significant reductions in youth homelessness and improved mental health outcomes for participants. Now, early into its second phase, the program is riding the tailwinds of the first.

Matt Rasmussen is the program manager for the Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program at the ODHS. He joins us to talk about the successes and challenges of the first pilot phase and aspirations for the second. Gabi Huffman, a youth consultant and former recipient of direct cash transfers, also joins us to share her experience with the program.

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News Source : https://www.opb.org/article/2026/01/12/pilot-program/