Grants for Seniors in Portland

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Portland, Oregon (2025 Guide)

Last updated: August 2025

This is a practical, plain‑language guide to help older adults in Portland find real, current help with housing, food, bills, healthcare, home repairs, transportation, and more. Links go to official or well‑established sources.

Key Takeaways

  • For urgent help now: call 211 for shelters, food, and bill assistance; 911 for emergencies; 988 for mental health crises; and the Oregon Abuse Hotline for elder abuse or neglect.
  • Most services have “front doors”: ADRC of Oregon (aging and disability), 211info (basic needs), Home Forward (Portland housing authority), Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid), and Community Action Agencies (energy/weatherization).
  • Expect waitlists for Section 8, affordable housing, and some repair programs. Apply early to multiple options, and keep your contact info updated.
  • Fastest bill relief: apply for LIHEAP energy help, ask your utility for a discount, and enroll in Oregon Lifeline for phone/internet.
  • Homeowners 62+ or disabled: Oregon’s Senior and Disabled Property Tax Deferral can postpone property taxes if you qualify.
  • Get free Medicare counseling from SHIBA to lower plan costs, check Extra Help for prescriptions, and enroll in Medicare Savings Programs.

If You Need Emergency Help

  • Call 911 for any immediate danger or medical emergency.
  • Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7).
  • Report abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of an older adult: call the Oregon Abuse Hotline at 1‑855‑503‑SAFE (7233) or use the Oregon DHS Report Abuse page.
  • For shelter, food, or bill help in the Portland metro area: dial 211 or visit 211info.
  • For cooling/warming centers during extreme weather: check the 211info weather page or Multnomah County’s emergency management website; 211 has the most up‑to‑date locations.

Quick emergency and urgent contacts

Need Who to contact How to contact
Immediate danger or medical emergency 911 Call 911
Mental health crisis 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988
Abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an older adult Oregon Abuse Hotline Call 1‑855‑503‑SAFE (7233)
Local shelter, food, utility help 211info Dial 211 or visit 211info.org
Medicare help and plan counseling SHIBA (Oregon) Visit Oregon SHIBA program
Benefits navigation for older adults ADRC of Oregon 1‑855‑673‑2372 or ADRC of Oregon

How to use this guide:

  • Program funding and rules change. Always confirm on the official site before you apply.
  • Keep a folder with your ID, Social Security number, proof of income, rent/mortgage, and utility bills. It speeds up applications.

At‑a‑Glance: Major Portland Programs

Program What it helps with Who runs it Where to apply/learn more
Oregon Health Plan (OHP/Medicaid) Health coverage, long‑term care, rides to covered care Oregon Health Authority OHP overview • Apply for OHP
Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) Help paying Medicare premiums and some cost‑sharing OHA via OHP/Assisters Medicare Savings Programs (Medicare.gov) • SHIBA help
SNAP (Food Stamps) Monthly grocery benefits Oregon DHS SNAP in Oregon
Senior Farm Direct Nutrition Program Checks for produce at farmers markets OHA + ODHS SFDNP details
LIHEAP Energy Assistance Help with heating/cooling bills OHCS via Community Action Utility Bill Payment Assistance
Weatherization Assistance Free home energy upgrades and safety checks OHCS via Community Action Energy and Weatherization
Section 8 and Public Housing Monthly rent subsidy; public housing Home Forward (Housing Authority of Portland) Home Forward • HUD Housing Choice Voucher
Senior Apartments (Section 202) Affordable senior housing with supports HUD + local sponsors HUD Section 202 overview
Property Tax Deferral (Senior/Disabled) Defers property taxes on your home Oregon Dept. of Revenue Property Tax Deferral
Oregon Lifeline Phone/broadband discount Oregon PUC Oregon Lifeline
Meals on Wheels People (Portland metro) Home‑delivered and community meals Meals on Wheels People Meals on Wheels People
Ride Connection (Portland metro) Free/reduced rides for older adults and people with disabilities Ride Connection Ride Connection
TriMet Honored Citizen Fares Reduced transit fares and LIFT paratransit TriMet TriMet Honored Citizen Fares

Reality check: Popular programs like Section 8 and some repair grants have waitlists or brief application windows. Sign up for alerts, apply to multiple programs, and keep copies of everything you submit.

Money and Benefits

Social Security, SSI, and Oregon SSP

  • Social Security retirement and disability benefits are federal. Learn and apply at the Social Security Administration.
  • If your income is very low, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Oregon adds a small State Supplement Payment (SSP) for some SSI recipients. See Oregon SSP program and apply for SSI through SSA.

Tip: If you’re close to the income or resource limits, get free advice from Legal Aid Services of Oregon or your local AAA via the ADRC of Oregon.

Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help

  • Programs like QMB, SLMB, and QI can pay your Part B premium and sometimes other costs if your income and assets meet yearly limits. Learn more at Medicare Savings Programs (Medicare.gov).
  • Check prescription cost help through Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy). Get free plan counseling from Oregon SHIBA.

Property Tax Help for Homeowners

  • Oregon’s Senior and Disabled Property Tax Deferral lets eligible homeowners 62+ or disabled defer property taxes on their primary residence. The state pays your taxes and places a lien; amounts are repaid when the home is sold or no longer qualifies. Details and forms: Oregon Department of Revenue — Property Tax Deferral.

Tip: Apply early in the year. Have proof of income, ownership, and homeowners insurance ready.

Utility and Phone/Internet Bill Help

  • LIHEAP: Apply through your local Community Action Agency for heating/cooling help and sometimes crisis assistance. Start at OHCS Utility Bill Payment Assistance and use their locator.
  • Weatherization Assistance: Free upgrades (insulation, air sealing, safety repairs) reduce bills long‑term. See Energy and Weatherization programs.
  • Oregon Lifeline: A monthly phone/broadband discount for low‑income households and eligible Tribal members. Apply at Oregon Lifeline.
  • Internet: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program has been paused due to funding. Check current status at the FCC’s ACP page. Ask your provider about low‑cost plans and pair them with Oregon Lifeline.

Also check your utility’s own discount programs:

Housing and Rent Assistance (Portland Metro)

Reality check: Most rental programs in Portland have waitlists. Apply to several options, sign up for alerts, and check weekly.

Section 8 (Housing Choice Vouchers) and Public Housing

  • Home Forward is the housing authority serving Portland/Multnomah County. They administer Section 8 vouchers and public housing. Check current waitlist status and sign‑up pages at Home Forward. Learn more about Section 8 at HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher program.
  • Washington and Clackamas counties have their own housing authorities; if you live or can move in those counties, apply there too.

Senior Apartments (Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly)

  • Federally funded apartments for people 62+ with very low incomes; many offer service coordinators and accessibility features. Learn more at HUD Section 202 overview. Search HUD’s resources and ask about senior‑only buildings.

Affordable Rentals and Local Help

  • Statewide property list: OHCS Find Affordable Housing. Filter for Portland and ask properties about waitlists and senior units.
  • Coordinated Entry for homelessness: If you’re homeless or at immediate risk, call 211 or visit 211info Housing to be screened and connected to shelter and housing resources.
  • Short‑term rent help (when funds are available) and move‑in costs may be available through Community Action partners; find your local agency via the Community Action Network directory.

Cost relief programs for homeowners and renters

Program Owners Renters Notes
Property Tax Deferral (Senior/Disabled) Yes No State pays taxes; lien on property
LIHEAP Energy Assistance Yes Yes Apply via local Community Action
Weatherization Assistance Yes Yes Free energy upgrades and safety checks
Oregon Lifeline (phone/internet) Yes Yes Monthly discount
SNAP (food benefits) Yes Yes Helps with groceries

Tip: Even if you were denied before, re‑apply. Rules change, and deductions (for medical expenses, for example) can help seniors qualify for SNAP.

Home Repair, Accessibility, and Weatherization

Repairs often have income limits, ownership and insurance requirements, and waitlists. Some grants require repayment if you sell soon after. Apply early and ask about priority criteria (health/safety, age, disability).

  • USDA Section 504 Home Repair (for rural areas): Grants up to $10,000 for homeowners 62+ to remove health/safety hazards; low‑interest loans available for others. Learn more and find the Oregon office at USDA Rural Development — Oregon contacts.
  • Portland Housing Bureau (PHB) Home Repair: Grants/loans for critical home repairs and accessibility for low‑ to moderate‑income homeowners in Portland. Start at the bureau home page and look for Home Repair programs: Portland Housing Bureau.
  • REACH CDC Community Builders: Home repairs for low‑income seniors and people with disabilities in parts of the Portland region. See REACH CDC Community Builders.
  • Habitat for Humanity Portland Region Home Repair: Critical health/safety repairs and accessibility modifications for qualifying homeowners. See Habitat Portland Region — Home Repair.
  • Weatherization Assistance: Free energy efficiency work (insulation, air sealing, ventilation) and safety checks. Start at OHCS Energy and Weatherization and use the locator to find your local provider.

County‑specific programs nearby:

Tip: Keep contractor estimates and take photos of issues; many programs ask for proof of the problem and proof of ownership/insurance.

Healthcare and Long‑Term Care

Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid)

OHP covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, dental, vision, mental health, and long‑term services for eligible adults. Apply or get help here:

Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): If you have OHP, you can get rides to covered medical and dental appointments. Check with your Coordinated Care Organization or see OHP’s transportation info: OHP transportation overview and ask your plan about ride brokers.

Medicare and Help with Costs

Get free, unbiased help with plan comparisons, drug coverage, Extra Help, and Medicare Savings Programs from Oregon SHIBA.

In‑Home Help Without Medicaid

Oregon Project Independence (OPI) offers limited in‑home supports (personal care, housekeeping, caregiver respite) for adults 60+ who are not on Medicaid long‑term care. Availability varies by county. Contact the ADRC of Oregon or Multnomah County Aging, Disability & Veterans Services at Multnomah County ADVSD.

Dental Care

  • If you have OHP: Dental services are included. Call your dental plan or CCO for providers.
  • Dental Lifeline Network — Oregon (Donated Dental Services): Free, comprehensive dental care for people who are elderly, have disabilities, or are medically fragile. See Dental Lifeline Network — Oregon.
  • OHSU School of Dentistry Clinic: Offers care at reduced cost as part of training programs. See OHSU School of Dentistry patient care.

Reality check: Free/low‑cost dental slots are limited and waitlists are common. Get on multiple lists, keep your voicemail clear, and respond quickly to callbacks.

Food and Nutrition

  • SNAP (Food Stamps): Monthly benefits for groceries. Many seniors qualify even if they own a home or car. Learn more and apply at About SNAP in Oregon.
  • Meals on Wheels People (Portland metro): Home‑delivered meals and neighborhood dining sites. See Meals on Wheels People.
  • Senior Farm Direct Nutrition Program: Summer produce checks for eligible older adults. See SFDNP details.
  • Food pantries: Find nearby pantries and produce markets through the Oregon Food Bank network.

Tip: If you have high medical costs, ask SNAP about medical expense deductions for seniors. This can increase your monthly benefit.

Transportation

If you need help getting from your door into a clinic, say so when you book the ride. Ask if door‑to‑door or door‑through‑door assistance is available.

Transportation options for seniors in Portland

Option Who it’s for What it provides Learn more
OHP Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation OHP members Rides to covered medical/dental appointments OHP transportation overview
Ride Connection Older adults and people with disabilities Free/reduced rides for medical, shopping, and daily needs in Portland metro Ride Connection
TriMet Honored Citizen Fares Seniors and people with disabilities Reduced fares on buses/MAX; discounted passes TriMet Honored Citizen Fares
TriMet LIFT Paratransit (ADA) ADA‑eligible riders Door‑to‑door service TriMet LIFT Paratransit
Veterans’ transportation Veterans Rides to VA medical care; volunteer driver programs Oregon Dept. of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) or your County VSO

Legal and Advocacy

Inclusive Resources

LGBTQ+ Seniors

  • SAGE Metro Portland (Friendly House): Social connection, case management referrals, and trainings for inclusive care. See Friendly House SAGE Metro Portland.
  • Q Center (Portland): Community programs, support groups, and referrals for LGBTQ+ adults, including older adults. See the Q Center.
  • For statewide care navigation, call the ADRC of Oregon and ask for inclusive providers.

Veteran Seniors

  • Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs: Pensions, Aid & Attendance, and local County Veteran Service Officers. Start at ODVA or find your County Veteran Service Office.
  • Aid & Attendance (VA): Extra monthly funds for veterans/surviving spouses who need help with daily activities or are housebound. See VA Aid & Attendance.

Reality check: Claims can take months. A VSO can help you gather medical evidence, avoid mistakes, and appeal if needed.

Disabled Seniors

  • OSIPM (Oregon Supplemental Income Program‑Medical): Medicaid pathway for people who are aged, blind, or disabled with limited income/resources. Get help applying via the ADRC of Oregon.
  • Home modifications and accessibility: See repair programs above and ask your AAA about fall‑prevention and home safety checks.
  • ADA paratransit: If fixed‑route transit doesn’t work for you, apply for TriMet LIFT Paratransit.

Tribal‑Specific Resources

Oregon has nine federally recognized Tribes; many offer elder programs, healthcare, and assistance that may be available regardless of county programs:

  • Tribal directory: Oregon Tribal Government Directory
  • Indian Health Service (Portland Area): IHS Portland Area
  • Examples near the Portland region include the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. Contact your Tribe’s elders program for transportation, caregiver support, and home repair resources.

Tip: Ask your Tribe directly about elder transportation, home repair, and caregiver respite—these may be offered separately from state programs.

Rural Seniors and Limited Access

Even in the metro area, some neighborhoods have limited nearby services.

  • Use the ADRC of Oregon to find home‑delivered meals, mobile clinics, and ride options.
  • Telehealth: Many OHP and Medicare Advantage plans cover telehealth; ask your clinic about phone or video visits.
  • Libraries and senior centers can help with online forms, printing, and copying.

Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips

  • Expect waitlists for housing and home repair. Put your name on multiple lists and keep your phone/voicemail clear.
  • Watch for fees and liens. Property tax deferral places a lien on your home; some repair grants require repayment if you sell soon after receiving help.
  • Keep copies. Save every application and letter. Write down who you talked to and when.
  • Don’t pay for benefits advice. SHIBA and ADRC counseling are free. Be careful with anyone asking for upfront fees or sensitive personal details by text or email.
  • Reapply if denied. Get help from Legal Aid or your AAA to appeal or fix paperwork.

Resources by Region (Portland Metro)

Multnomah County (Portland)

Washington County (West Metro)

Clackamas County (South/East Metro)

Application Tips and Documents Checklist

Have these handy:

  • Photo ID and Social Security number
  • Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs)
  • Bank statements (if required)
  • Rent or mortgage statement; utility bills
  • Medicare and/or OHP card
  • Proof of disability (if applicable)

Tips:

  • Ask for help filling out forms—AAAs, SHIBA, Legal Aid, and libraries often assist for free.
  • If mobility is an issue, request phone appointments or home‑visit options.
  • Keep copies (paper or photos) of everything you submit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What’s the fastest way to lower my utility bills in Portland?
A: Apply for LIHEAP through your local Community Action provider using the OHCS utility assistance locator, enroll in Oregon Lifeline for phone/internet discounts, and call your utility to ask about discount programs and payment plans: PGE, Pacific Power, NW Natural, and Portland Water Bureau.

Q: How do I find open Section 8 waitlists in Portland?
A: Check Home Forward regularly and sign up for alerts. Also watch OHCS Find Affordable Housing for other properties and senior buildings. Openings may last only a few days.

Q: Can I get in‑home help without being on Medicaid?
A: Ask about Oregon Project Independence (OPI) via the ADRC of Oregon or Multnomah County ADVSD. Availability and fees vary by county and funding.

Q: Where can I get unbiased help with Medicare plans?
A: Contact Oregon SHIBA for free counseling on plans, drug coverage, Extra Help, and Medicare Savings Programs.

Q: I own my home and can’t afford property taxes. Any options?
A: Look at the Oregon Senior and Disabled Property Tax Deferral. If eligible, the state pays your taxes and places a lien to be repaid later.

Q: Is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) still available?
A: Federal ACP funding was paused in 2024. Check the FCC’s ACP page for status. In the meantime, apply for Oregon Lifeline and ask your provider about low‑cost plans.

Q: How can I get rides to the doctor?
A: If you’re on OHP, ask your plan about NEMT rides (see the OHP transportation overview). In the Portland area, Ride Connection and TriMet LIFT can help based on eligibility.

Q: I’m just over the income limit for a program. Should I apply anyway?
A: Yes. Some programs allow deductions (like medical costs for SNAP) or have different limits for seniors. A SHIBA or ADRC counselor can check for exceptions and alternatives.

Q: Where do I report elder fraud or abuse?
A: Call the Oregon Abuse Hotline at 1‑855‑503‑SAFE (7233). For scams, you can also contact the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection.

Q: I don’t use the internet. How can I get help?
A: Call the ADRC of Oregon at 1‑855‑673‑2372. They can mail forms, help you apply by phone, or refer you to local offices and counselors.

Additional Tables

Who to call for what

Topic Best first call Backup
Medicare plans, Extra Help, MSPs Oregon SHIBA ADRC of Oregon
In‑home help, caregiver respite, OPI ADRC of Oregon Multnomah County ADVSD
Rent help and housing referrals 211info Home Forward
Energy bills and weatherization Local Community Action via OHCS locator Your utility (see links above)
Property tax relief Oregon Dept. of Revenue Your county assessor
Rides to medical care Your OHP/CCO (if on OHP) Ride Connection, TriMet LIFT

Portland quick‑start checklist

Step Action Where
1 Call 211 for immediate food/shelter/bill help 211info.org
2 Apply for OHP or check Medicare Savings eligibility OHP • MSPs
3 Apply for LIHEAP and ask utilities for discounts OHCS utility help + utility links
4 Get on housing waitlists (vouchers/senior apartments) Home Forward • HUD Section 202
5 If a homeowner, check repair grants and tax deferral Portland Housing Bureau • Tax Deferral

Resources (Official and Established)

Statewide “front doors”

Portland metro and utilities

Note on statistics: For statewide context, Oregon’s American Community Survey (ACS 2023) reports 827,874 adults 65+ (19.6% of the population), with 34.4% reporting a disability and 10.6% below 100% of the poverty level. See Senior Statistics of Oregon (ACS 2023) and the U.S. Census Bureau’s ACS.

Disclaimer

Program details, eligibility rules, funding, and waitlists can change at any time. Always confirm the latest information with the official agency or program website before applying. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, medical, or financial advice.

About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

  • Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
  • Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non‑profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
  • Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

  • Last Updated: August 2025
  • Sources Verified: August 2025
  • Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.

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