United Way receives $120K grant for housing services

United Way of Deschutes County will receive $39,756 from Meyer Memorial Trust for each of the next three years on behalf of Thrive Central Oregon, to provide wrap-around services to individuals and families seeking or utilizing affordable housing support, in partnership with Housing Works.

It is widely understood that Central Oregon is in the midst of a housing crisis. People, especially low-income households, are being forced out of their homes due to escalating rental rates and shut out of existing housing opportunities.

Through Thrive, this grant will help people stay in their homes, as well as helping people find homes by bringing social worker services directly to people needing help in finding or retaining stable housing.

Thrive Central Oregon services will focus on providing access, retention and advancement opportunities to individuals and families participating in the Housing Choice Voucher program through the regional housing authority, Housing Works.

Intensive case management services will be provided to those at-risk of losing their vouchers and struggling to maintain their housing due to issues that might include, physical or mental health issues, substance abuse problems, transportation or other needs. Services will also be available to the public, including those who are homeless or housing insecure, and seeking services through Housing Works.

Thrive Social Worker Sarah Kelly said, “I am extremely pleased that Meyer Memorial Trust has funded this effort and I’m very eager to support Housing Works in their efforts to increase housing access and stability for Central Oregonians.”

For more information about this program please contact Thrive Central Oregon at thrivecentraloregon@gmail.com