Mandy Martin made sure of that this week, when she took the seventh-grader shopping for basics he can use no matter where he s living. The Lighthouse, a Community Works program for homeless and runaway youth, offers a range of services for young people ages 11 to 22. Located at 15 N. Peach St., Medford, the center is open from 3 to 6 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Young people can get food, clothing, shoes, towels, blankets and hygiene items, all for free.
In addition, telephones, televisions and computers are available for use. The center also offers counseling, job resources and connections to other agencies for help. To the boy who spends many days shuffling among friends couches and floors, fundamental elements such as food, shelter, clothing and pillows are never guaranteed. But thanks to Martin, the newest advocate for homeless youth, getting basic needs met is more likely for this boy and the estimated 600 kids like him in Jackson County. Her last big gig was as the designer of the enhanced 911 system for Jackson County, a well-paid project that was exciting to plan but not to continue.