YAMHILL COUNTY, Ore. — A new metal fabrication shop at Blanchet Farm is creating additional workforce development opportunities for people recovering from homelessness and addiction, giving residents hands-on job training while they rebuild their lives.
Located in Yamhill County’s wine country, the shop opened a few months ago as part of Blanchet Farm’s recovery program, where about 20 residents live for seven to nine months while working toward sobriety and long-term stability.
Jalen Warren, who spent six years homeless on the streets of Portland while battling methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl addiction, said the program has given him a new purpose. After surviving two overdoses and four hospitalizations, Warren is now six months sober and learning metal fabrication skills…