Elizabeth Fraser, liaison to 2022 Impact Partner WomenFirst Transition & Referral Center, recently shared some exciting updates from the organization. WomenFirst has significantly enhanced its housing preparation classes within its life skills training program. This has resulted in a notable increase in participants becoming dependable tenants. This improvement is substantiated by positive feedback from landlords. Building on this success, WomenFirst has expanded its support infrastructure by securing a new residential facility in Southeast Portland. This facility will accommodate women for up to a year, supporting them as they engage in employment and continue with life skills management classes. Read more here

In addition, WomenFirst recently organized a leadership skills class led by former Portland City Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty. This initiative is designed to equip women to effectively advocate before county and state government officials. Encouraged by the success of this program, plans are already in place to offer it again.

Further boosting their efforts, WomenFirst is the recipient of a three-year, $210,000 Dream Big Grant from the Women’s Foundation of Oregon! This grant will enable the expansion and enhancement of their programs, ensuring continued support and empowerment for women in the community. The organization is growing and recruiting as well – seeking a broad range of roles including a housing retention specialist, financial manager. See their job listings here and spread the word!