“We meet people where they are–with compassion and dignity.”
This month we are honored to support RAVEN–Radical Assistance of Vulnerable Eugene Neighbors– a peer-led nonprofit collective who provide low-barrier, non-coercive support for our unhoused community in Eugene, Oregon.
RAVEN was founded in December 2024 in response to the closure of White Bird’s Front Rooms Department, which was a longstanding drop-in center for unhoused and low-income community members that was eliminated due to funding cuts. Frontline service workers came together to continue their work despite this closure, knowing that these services are not optional but essential for survival for many in our community.
As many safety nets of support for vulnerable and marginalized neighbors continue to collapse in Eugene, RAVEN seeks to fill those gaps– with food, human connection, and life-saving stabilization.
“Each meal and resource distributed is more than just calories or supplies: it is an entry point to connection, to discussing health crises or relapse, and to preventing an overdose. RAVEN is trusted because we are consistent, compassionate, and have a low barrier to entry. We meet people exactly where they are, with no judgment and no requirements. Every day we are present, people eat, people connect, and people survive.”
RAVEN is seeking funding to support the continued operation of their stabilization site, which sees an average of 575 services encounters per week. Resources provided at the site include basic needs supplies, seasonal cold-weather gear, and navigation supplies.
Blue Lotus Chai is matching all donations up to $500 to support the life-saving services RAVEN provides to our community.
Help RAVEN Continue Services for Vulnerable Neighbors
We invite you to join us in contribution, and to spread the word on the important work that RAVEN does to help all members of our community be seen, heard, and loved without condition.
Every cup of chai makes a positive difference. Thank you for being part of Peace & Chai!