In response to the growing need  in the area, New Avenues’ East Connect program provides services to youth in East County at-risk of or experiencing homelessness. We work with existing partners in the community to expand homelessness prevention and early intervention services in SE Portland by offering:

• Mentoring & advocacy from staff trained in Trauma Informed Care & Assertive Engagement
• Information and referrals on housing, street safety, health insurance, crisis support and medical care
• Engagement activities, including specific activities for LGBTQ youth
• Food, clothing, hygiene items, bus tickets/public transportation support
• Resources and referrals for gang affected youth, youth with alcohol and drug addiction, CSEC youth (Commercially and Sexually Exploited Children)
• Access and/or referrals to alternative education options, including pursuing GED through New Avenues
• Access and/or referrals to employment programs & services, including job readiness training, work experience, and life skills training through New Avenues
• Connection to SMYRC (Sexual & Gender Minority Youth Resource Center)
• Access to New Avenues’ programs serving youth transitioning out of foster care

East Connect primarily serves youth ages 13-18 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm by appointment; services are available for youth up to age 21.

The East Connect program is located at:

THE ROSEWOOD INITIATIVE

16126 SE STARK ST

PORTLAND, OR 97233

For more information, contact Mustafah Finney at mfinney@newavenues.org or 503.954.7251