PORTLAND, Ore.—The Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) in Multnomah County, Oregon, works with over 100 youth, ages 16 to 24, experiencing homelessness and housing instability.
The program follows a housing-first, trauma-informed service model, providing stable supports around housing and other basic human needs like food, hygiene, childcare, and connection to culture. This model is especially culturally appropriate for Native youth, most of whom come to NAYA in crisis. Up to two-thirds of program participants are young parents, half may struggle with substance abuse issues, and alm...
