Investing in Employment Is Key to Ending Homelessness
“Multnomah County commissioners try to save jobs programs for homeless people … again” writes Lillian Mongeau Hughes for the The Oregonian.
As this coverage highlights, these programs help people build skills, gain work experience, and overcome barriers to employment. “’When we end somebody’s homelessness, we don’t end their poverty,’” [Commissioner] Singleton said. She thinks the goal of workforce programs should be “’getting people employment so they make enough money that they don’t have to rely on county safety net services.’”
At Worksystems, we see the impact of this work every day. The A Home For Everyone Economic Opportunity Program (AHFE EOP) plays a critical role in helping people experiencing housing instability move toward lasting economic independence by bridging that gap. People need help navigating the next steps, and when they receive the right support at the right time, they succeed.
This program year alone (July 2025 – May 2026):
- 414 participants received employment services through AHFE EOP
- 100% of participants were experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness
- 80% exited with employment that improved housing stability, earning an average wage of $22.15 per hour
Thank you to Commissioners Shannon Singleton, Vince Jones-Dixon, and Julia Brim-Edwards for bringing forward amendments to preserve this funding. Their leadership reflects what we know works—investing in people and pathways to employment.
