Oregon Direct Cash Transfers Plus Program
📍 Portland, Bend, Sandy, Medford
2-Year Direct Cash Program
Gabrielle Huffman, DCT+ recipient
What is Oregon DCT+?
Launched in February 2023, Oregon’s Direct Cash Transfers Plus (DCT+) program supports young adults ages 18–24 by pairing unconditional cash with tailored services like financial empowerment, housing navigation, and case management to help them overcome housing barriers.
DCT+ began in three counties — Multnomah, Clackamas, and Deschutes — serving 120 young people. It has since expanded to five additional sites, reaching 120 more youth and advancing Oregon’s commitment to ending youth homelessness.
How It Works
1.
120 participants receive $1,000 per month for 24 months to help cover rent, utilities, and other basic needs, providing a crucial foundation of economic stability.
2.
Participants also receive a one-time $3,000 enrichment fund to help cover security deposits, furniture, moving costs, or education and job training expenses that support long-term stability.
3.
With support from DCT staff, participants create a budget, set goals, and build a plan for housing and stability. Staff meet with them regularly to offer coaching and guidance along the way.
UPDATES
Results: 94% Housed at Program Exit
The Oregon Department of Human Services partnered with Youth To The Front to publish a report on how the first phase of the pilot impacted lives. Initial research indicates this program is an efficient way to end youth homelessness.
HOW IT CHANGED LIVES
“I don’t think I would be here without DCT.”
Before Direct Cash Transfers (DCT), Gabrielle Huffman was fighting to survive—caring for her young daughter while facing eviction threats, harassment from her building manager, and the lingering impact of an abusive relationship.
With direct cash, she caught up on rent, repaired her car, created a safe home, and began counseling and financial literacy workshops. Today, she’s saving to buy a home and finish school, describing this period as a transformational shift from constant survival to stability, confidence, and real hope for an independent future.
“Where you start does not define where you're headed. Your future is still being written.”
— Adara VonHorn, Youth Consultant
Additional Resources
Take a deeper dive into the Oregon DCT+ program
REPORT
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PRESS RELEASE
On The Team
This initiative is led by the Oregon Department of Human Services, who partnered with Youth To The Front to publish a report on how the first phase of the pilot impacted lives. Youth consultants and PSY facilitated the distribution of cash and ensure community voices are at the forefront.
Rocio Evelin Carranza Jacinto
Director, Program Development and Growth
Adara VonHorn
Youth Consultant
Slaynne De La Cruz
Director, Program Development and Growth
Anjala Huff
Vice President, Direct Cash Transfers
This initiative is presented by the Oregon Department of Human Services, Point Source Youth and the following community-based organizations.
