A new residential program called Rosebud is now open in Portland, offering a fresh approach to supporting youth in foster care. For many older teens in Oregon’s child welfare system, the journey toward adulthood can feel uncertain. They often need more than a place to stay – they need dependable mental health support and practical guidance for independent living.
Until now, that combination has been hard to find. To help close this gap, Oregon Department of Human Services Child Welfare teamed up with New Narrative to create Rosebud, a program designed specifically with these young people in mind.
What is Rosebud?
Opened in April 2026, Rosebud provides a home-like environment for 16- and 17-year-olds preparing to step into adulthood. With nine beds and round‑the‑clock staffing, the program supports youth not only with mental and emotional health, but also with everyday life skills like budgeting, cooking, and scheduling important appointments. The goal is simple: to help young people build confidence and stability as they shape their future.
Why is Rosebud important?
Many teens in care don’t fit neatly into traditional foster homes or group homes. Rosebud offers something different. It’s a supportive living setting centered on independence, tailored for youth who need both hands-on life skills and consistent mental health services. As Summer Hunker, Children’s Behavioral Health Systems Coordinator, put it:
“We are excited to see Rosebud open its doors. This program provides vital support for youth who need both mental health services and a stable, home-like environment as they move toward independence.”
How does this help Oregon?
Programs like Rosebud support Oregon communities by providing:
- More placement choices: Rosebud adds an essential new option for older teens whose needs weren’t fully met by existing programs.
- Better access to mental health care: Housing and services in the same place means support is available when it’s needed most.
- A stronger start to adulthood: With practical skill-building and a stable home base, youth can transition into adulthood with greater readiness and self-assurance.
KGW News recently highlighted Rosebud’s opening; you can read their coverage on the KGW8 website.
Want to learn more?
For questions about the program, contact Lydia Pfluger, Child Welfare Continuum of Care Coordinator, at Lydia.R.Pfluger@odhs.oregon.gov.
