An Invisible Crisis

Breaking the Cycle: Scorpion Creek Ranch’s Innovative Model for the Homelessness Crisis

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In Lane County, Oregon, a pressing question resonates within the community, driven by the visible and escalating crisis of homelessness. The increasing visibility of tent cities and the deepening crisis demands an urgent and innovative solution.

Scorpion Creek Ranch (SCR) will emerge as a beacon of hope, promising to redefine the narrative of youth homelessness with a pioneering educational and therapeutic model. Committed to transforming the lives of homeless teens aged 14-18, SCR's planned model is built on a foundation of education and empowerment, aiming to equip these young individuals not only with academic knowledge but with practical skills, emotional support, and a sense of community. The proposed programs include vocational training, therapeutic interventions, and life skills development, all tailored to help teens transition from homelessness to self-sufficiency and success.

Oregon is facing a stark reality, with the dubious distinction of having the highest rate of chronic homelessness in the country. With the highest level of unsheltered youth homelessness in the nation, at 70% unsheltered, and a 16% increase in homelessness from 2022 to 2023, the urgency for SCR’s innovative intervention is more pronounced than ever.

Katie Brown, the visionary behind SCR, will aim to create a transformative space for homeless teenagers. Her vision will extend beyond merely combating homelessness, aspiring to build a society where every child feels worthy and connected.

SCR is set on a mission to create 100,000 "sustaining members" committed to ending youth homelessness. By joining the movement with a donation of just $10 a month, donors have the opportunity to address homelessness at its roots in Lane County and help replicate this transformative model nationwide.

The call to action is clear: Do more than just fix homelessness; aim to end the cycle. Becoming a Sustaining Member will mean stepping into the role of a changemaker. Together, with Scorpion Creek Ranch, the community can look forward to forging a path to a brighter future for our youth and society.

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