We are currently recruiting 2 to 3 host homes per high school in East Multnomah County for the upcoming school year.
We are currently recruiting 2 to 3 host homes per high school in East Multnomah County for the upcoming 2025-26 school year.
In partnership with local high schools, we aim to connect houseless students with stable housing so they can complete their high school education.
Host Expectations
Volunteer hosts can be at any stage of adulthood. As a host, you’ll share part of your home and life with a student—not as a parent, but as a caring adult presence. The onboarding process includes an interview, home visit, background check, and training.
Program Support
Second Home staff provide ongoing support and coaching for both students and hosts. The school district ensures transportation to and from school, even if students are housed outside their school’s neighborhood boundaries. Many students also participate in the Oregon Health Plan and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
Trained mediators facilitate housing agreements between students and hosts, and they can be called upon to renegotiate terms or resolve conflicts during the home-sharing period.
Student-Host Connection Process
Our program is built on mutual agreement and relationship. After a potential student-host match is identified, both parties have the opportunity to interview each other, check references, and take time to decide if they are a good fit.
Student Benefits After the Program
Students leave with a rental history, having lived under a formal housing agreement.
Students who participate in our program (or other ODHS-contracted organizations) for at least six months qualify for a tuition and fee waiver at all Oregon state colleges and universities.
Visit the Second Home website to learn more about how you can make a difference in the life of a local unaccompanied high school student. You can also reach us at rschellert@emooregon.org.
