Grants for Seniors in Portland

Last Updated on January 5, 2024 by Rachel

Portland has been becoming a popular city in Oregon because of its livability, arts, culture, social activities, outdoor recreation, job opportunities, food, and drink among lots of people. Although this city has a lot to offer for its citizens and newcomers, low and middle-income senior residents may have difficulties in covering their living expenses. As this attention gets higher, housing prices are steadily increasing. Since housing is tight and elder people who are having financial hardship are increasing, the federal government, the City of Portland, and local charity-based organizations offer a great deal of programs and benefits for them.


Housing and Rent Assistance

The Portland Housing Bureau has been running a variety of programs and benefits for older people throughout the city. One of these programs is called the “Home Repair Program” and it offers loans to eligible older adults up to $15,000 with no interest. This rental assistance can differ according to the economic circumstances of the accepted applicants. Some of the other programs which senior citizens can apply for are the Community Energy Project, REACH CDC Community Builders Program, Rebuilding Together, and Unlimited Choices. Explore more opportunities through the following link https://www.portland.gov/phb or make a phone call at 1 503 823 2375.

The Portland General Assistance Program was constituted and has been sponsored by the City of Portland for individuals with severe disabilities who are at risk of homelessness or who are already homeless. Senior people who are facing financial challenges and need housing or rental assistance may consult this program. Accepted persons will be receiving monthly financial support based on their income level. They may also apply for food assistance, health care support, utility services, and other special needs to be assessed. For more information and to apply, please go to https://www.portlandmaine.gov/262/Housing-Community-Development or call 207 775 7911.

Financial Assistance

St. Vincent DePaul Social Services Portland Council is a local organization that brings different churches together to help low and middle-income people across the city. Particularly older citizens who are searching for financial assistance are given priority by this organization. Its main criteria are the income level of the applicant. Accepted people will be receiving monthly cash payments after their economic condition is evaluated. Find out more information at https://www.svdppdx.org/ or give it a call at 1 503 235 7837.

The Salvation Army of Cascade Division is the local office of a nationwide non-governmental establishment. It has been running a program called “Family Services” for people who are having financial problems. Elder residents who are in emergency need of financial assistance are encouraged to apply for this program. The monetary aid can be used to cover rent, heating bills, utility, or housing expenses. Some participants who are looking for a place to live or food service can make connections with the Senior Center in the city. For further information, please visit https://cascade.salvationarmy.org/ or dial 503 794 3266.

Health Assistance

The Portland Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) Program was created and has been financed by the City of Portland for low and middle-income persons who need health care assistance. Older adults who are 60 years of age and older are prioritized by this program. It helps with medical information and the treatment process. Families of the participants who do not have health insurance may also benefit from this program. The link to their official website is as follows https://shiba.oregon.gov/Pages/index.aspx or make communications with 503 988 3646.

Local Health Care Clinics offer a wide range of health care services for needy families, children, and older people. Some of them are free and some of the clinics are free for eligible patients. Particularly older persons who do not have health insurance and need comprehensive medical care are encouraged to get in touch with these clinics. These clinics are The Old Town Clinic, Children’s Community Clinic, Rosewood Family Health Center, PACS Family Health Center, National College of Natural Medicine Community Clinics, Wallace Medical Concern, Southwest Community Health Center, and West Burnside Chiropractic Clinic, etc. It is important to get in touch with all of them as early as possible since they may have limited places.

Utility Bills Assistance

St. Andrew Emergency Services Portland is a local organization that has been sponsored by the city churches for low and moderate-income citizens. Senior individuals and single moms who are having economic problems and are not able to cover their utility expenses are prioritized by this establishment. Accepted people will be receiving monthly food support and utility assistance based on their financial circumstances. They may also benefit from daily hot meals and clothing. Click here https://standrewchurch.com/emergencyservices/ to see more information or by phone at 971 244 0339.

Food Assistance

The Community Relief Fund of the United Way Columbia-Willamette is one of the recent local establishments that aims to help people in need. Older people who are 60 years or older and are not able to care for themselves and their families are welcome to benefit from the services of this organization. Eligible seniors will be receiving monthly food bags or daily hot, cold, or frozen food. They can also request assistance for rental issues, utility problems, housing expenses, etc. For further information, please click https://www.unitedway-pdx.org/ or dial 503 228 9131.

Neighborhood House Incorporated Portland is a local initiative that has been serving homeless people and their families. It runs divergent programs and services to make sure everyone is living in a safe, secure, and decent environment. Elder people are prioritized and they can apply for emergency food service. Besides, it helps with rent support, energy bill expenses, foreclosure prevention tactics, and more. Explore more opportunities through the following link https://nhpdx.org/ or make a phone call at 1 503 768 4463.