Help in Oregon
For people starting over after prison, foster care, treatment, homelessness, abuse, or trafficking
We've verified 23 places in Oregon, most of them in Portland, Eugene and Salem, plus 11 that serve the whole state. The most help we've found here is for people leaving homelessness (15) and after prison or jail (12).
211info
Oregon's information and referral line connecting callers to shelter, food, health care, mental health, and employment help across the state and Southwest Washington. Dial 211, or text your ZIP code to 898211 during weekday business hours.
Youth Transitions Program (Independent Living Program)
State program for current and former foster youth covering skill-building, Youth Transition Funds, the Chafee Education and Training Grant (up to $5,000 per year through age 25), and housing subsidies for those aging out. Youth still in care go through their caseworker; youth already out call to request an ILP case.
Oregon Vital Records (Center for Health Statistics)
Where to get a certified copy of an Oregon birth certificate. The first copy costs $25 ($28 in person with ID authentication); appointments are same-day for most records, mail orders take 3–5 weeks. One valid government photo ID or three documents from the approved list are required.
Oregon DMV Identification Card
State ID card issuance. Make an appointment or use standby service at a DMV office, bring proof of identity and Oregon address, provide a Social Security number or certify you have none, and pay the fee. An interim card is issued on the spot; the permanent card arrives by mail within about 20 days.
ONE Customer Service Center (SNAP, OHP, TANF)
Single point of entry for Oregon food benefits (SNAP), the Oregon Health Plan, TANF cash, child care assistance, and TA-DVS funds for people leaving domestic violence. Apply through the ONE portal online, by phone on weekdays, or in person at a local office.
Legal Aid Services of Oregon – Portland Regional Office
Free civil legal help for low-income residents of Multnomah, Clackamas, Hood River, Sherman, and Wasco counties, including housing, benefits, and domestic violence matters. Intake is by phone only during weekday hours; interpreters are provided on request.
National lines that work in Oregon
SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential treatment referral for substance use and mental health. Finds local programs that take your insurance or none.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 for any mental health or substance use crisis. Available to anyone in any program.
Lifeline free phone program
Free or discounted phone and service for people on Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or low income. Apply online or through a carrier.
National Human Trafficking Hotline
24/7 confidential hotline for survivors of trafficking and people who suspect it. Connects to vetted local services.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
24/7 confidential help for anyone affected by domestic violence. Advocates connect you to local shelters and legal help.
Start right where you are
Each program has a step-by-step checklist for the first 72 hours, 30 days, and 90 days, so you always know your next step.