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Food & Other Assistance for Times of Crisis

Need help obtaining food or other assistance in Oregon during these trying times? You can start your search here.

Click headings to expand the information listed below.

This page will be updated as additional information and resources become available.

How it’s helpful:

  • The Oregon Food Bank is a statewide network that links you with 21 regional food banks and more than 1,400 food assistance sites (Oregon Food Bank locations).
  • They serve anyone in need — you don’t need to show proof of income or documentation in many locations.
  • They provide more than just groceries: e.g. free meals, fresh produce, mobile food markets, and help with other support services.
  • No judgment, minimal formalities: e.g. many locations won’t ask for much beyond a zip code or residency region.

How to use it:

  • Open their Find Support page to locate food pantries, pick-up sites, and mobile markets near you.
  • You can also call 2-1-1 (United Way’s help line) for immediate assistance to find a pantry near you (or open the 211info site).
  • Text your zip code to 898211 for a quick way to get local food resources information sent directly to your phone.
  • For people 60+ or with a disability: the Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (855-673-2372) can help you find local meal programs and food boxes in your area (or open the ADRC site’s Food page).

How it’s helpful:

  • OHCS lists a variety of rental & housing assistance programs: e.g. renters in crisis, utility/rent help, and eviction prevention.
  • They don’t always provide the services directly; they often direct you to local agencies.

How to use it:

  • Visit the OHCS website (esp. the Rental and Housing Assistance page) to scan programs that fit your situation.
  • Gather documentation: proof of income, rent amount, lease or rental agreement, any eviction notices.
  • Contact a local service provider or agency. They will need to know your county, income level, how long you’ve been behind, etc.
  • If you’re behind on rent or facing eviction, act as soon as possible because funds are often limited and may be prioritized for those with urgent need (e.g. an eviction court case).
  • For immediate general help, you can also call 2-1-1 or visit 211info.org (esp. the Housing and Shelter page) to find local resources.

Important notes:

  • Some statewide programs are currently closed or have exhausted funds. (E.g. the website for the Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance Program indicates the program is closed due to exhausted funds.)
  • Even if a large state program is closed, there are often local programs (county or nonprofit-based) that may still have availability.
  • Eligibility often depends on income, rental status, urgency (eviction risk), and location (county or city).
  • Acting early is important. Waiting until eviction is imminent may limit options or cause delays.

These are stressful times. Need emotional help?

 

988 Lifeline

If you are thinking about suicide or would like emotional support, the 988 Lifeline is available 24/7. They can also help if you are worried about a friend or loved one. Help is free and confidential. See 988lifeline.org for options (e.g. phone, chat, text, deaf / hard of hearing).

 

Crisis Lines and Suicide Prevention

In addition, these resources are also listed by the Oregon Department of Human Services (Crisis Lines and Suicide Prevention page): 

Planned Parenthood

 

Oregon Health Authority

 

Northwest Abortion Access Fund

 

AbortionFinder

 

National Network of Abortion Funds