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Housing First programs have been popping up across the country over the last decade, with a range of services provided to community members who experience different forms of being unhoused.

Jackson County has a high rate of unhoused people, with many of the community wondering what will be done about this critical issue.

Earlier this year, Jackson County received almost $9 million to assist the unhoused population in gaining access to affordable and sustainable housing. Rapid rehousing programs and community outreach events are crucial to assisting those currently unhoused.

Jackson County has an incredibly high need for affordable housing with low-barrier entrance requirements. The Housing First approach addresses the need for a safe dwelling in order to heal and works toward a functional life.

People who work in Housing First programs recognize that choice and autonomy should be granted to the service users, and often helps them to feel empowered and make better decisions for themselves.

Becoming unhoused can happen for a multitude of reasons, whether through job loss or displacement due to natural disaster. Thousands were displaced due to the Almeda Fire back in 2020, with many still waiting to find housing they can afford.

Current housing programs that are available in the county are often not options for our unhoused friends, as many can’t reach minimum requirements to enter.

This means they are unable to access even most basic services, so Housing First programs are tailored to help anyone and everyone, regardless of their history.

Some unhoused people have lost everything, including simple items such as their ID card or birth certificate. Housing First programs can work with community members in order to help them replace this needed documentation.

Many housing programs also require some form of commitment to sobriety, when individuals aren’t in a stable enough environment to even consider lessening their substance use. The Housing First approach allows for those using substances to acquire housing before addressing other needs, such as income or treatment for substances or mental health conditions.

Octavia’s Options, one of the first Housing First programs in Jackson County, was launched earlier this year with goals to open an office by fall of 2024 to provide services to our community members and build community partnerships.

Octavia’s Options was recently granted $24,000 to spend on naloxone distribution before June 30, granting it the ability to start its naloxone distribution program. This program is designed to provide free naloxone to high-risk community members at outreach events.

While controversial, the passing of Measure 110 allows for programs such as Octavia’s Options and the mobile harm reduction unit Stabbin’ Wagon to save lives and contribute to community healing in solidarity.

Stabbin’ Wagon, for instance, was able to provide over 750 free doses of naloxone during the Medford Pride event this year.

Octavia’s Options stands in solidarity with the Stabbin’ Wagon and recognizes the critical need its services are providing.