Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Oregon
Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help and Safety Resources for Single Mothers in Oregon
Last updated: September 2025
If you are reading this on a device that an abusive partner might monitor, consider using a safer device and clearing your browser history when you are done. For immediate danger, call 911.
Emergency Help and Quick Links
Quick Help Box
- Emergency phone: 911
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE), text START to 88788, or use live chat via The Hotline official site for confidential 24/7 support. (thehotline.org)
- Oregon statewide DV/Sexual Violence support via Call to Safety: 503-235-5333 or toll-free 888-235-5333 (24/7). See Call to Safety overview. (ocadsv.org, multco.us)
- TA‑DVS cash for safety needs: Up to $3,200 within 90 days from Oregon DHS to help you relocate, change locks, and more. Start with your local ODHS office at 800-699-9075 or see ODHS TA‑DVS page. (oregon.gov)
- Restraining orders: Oregon’s Family Abuse Prevention Act (FAPA) orders are free. Use the court’s free Guide & File tool for protective orders. A contested hearing is typically held within 21 days if the other party requests it. (courts.oregon.gov, womenslaw.org)
- Address Confidentiality Program (ACP): Keep your home address off public records with free mail forwarding from Oregon DOJ. ACP phone 503-373-1323 or 888-559-9090. Details at Oregon DOJ ACP. (doj.state.or.us)
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988; Spanish press 2 or text AYUDA to 988. Veterans press 1. See 988 Lifeline. (988lifeline.org)
- 211info resource navigation: Dial 211 or 866-698-6155 (Mon–Fri 8am–6pm), text ZIP to 898211 (Mon–Fri 9am–5pm). See 211info Contact. (211info.org)
How Oregon’s Situation Looks Right Now
Oregon’s own auditors reported 532 domestic-violence-related deaths across 393 incidents from 2009–2019, and more than a third of adults here will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes. This isn’t a small issue—and it affects access to housing, legal help, child care, and steady work. (oregoncapitalchronicle.com, opb.org)
Shelter networks and court protections exist, but the system can be slow and confusing, especially when you are keeping kids safe, holding a job, and trying to move in a hurry. This guide focuses on fast, practical steps that single mothers in Oregon can use today, with direct links, real phone numbers, benefit amounts, and Plan B options if the first route doesn’t work.
Fastest Safety Steps You Can Take Today
- Make a short safety plan: Decide a safe place to go, who will pick up the kids, a code word with a trusted friend, and how to secure your phone location settings. Local advocates can help you safety‑plan—call 503-235-5333 or 888-235-5333 to reach Call to Safety. (ocadsv.org, multco.us)
- File for a FAPA restraining order if it fits your situation: You can apply at your county courthouse or start online using OJD Guide & File protective orders. It’s free to file, and if the other party asks for a hearing, it must generally be held within 21 days; custody-related challenges can be heard within 5 days. (courts.oregon.gov, womenslaw.org)
- Request emergency cash for safety through TA‑DVS: ODHS can pay landlords or vendors for things like deposits, first month’s rent, lock changes, security cameras, and replacement essentials you left behind—up to $3,200 within 90 days. Start at 800-699-9075 or TA‑DVS. (oregon.gov)
- Protect your address and paper trail: Ask an advocate to enroll you in the free Oregon Address Confidentiality Program so you can use a substitute address for DMV, schools, child support, and more. ACP phone 503-373-1323 or 888-559-9090. (doj.state.or.us)
- Reach local shelter advocates now: If you’re in the Portland tri‑county area, try any of these 24/7 lines: Call to Safety 503-235-5333/888-235-5333; Raphael House 503-222-6222; Clackamas Women’s Services 503-654-2288/888-654-2288. For other counties, see the regional section below. (ocadsv.org, raphaelhouse.com, cwsor.wordpress.com)
- Use 988 for emotional crisis support anytime: Call or text 988, or chat online for free and confidential support; Spanish options available. (988lifeline.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Item | What to do | Where to go |
|---|---|---|
| Restraining order (FAPA) | Start online, then file at your circuit court | OJD Guide & File protective orders (free) (courts.oregon.gov) |
| Emergency safety cash | Ask for TA‑DVS, up to $3,200 in 90 days | ODHS TA‑DVS, or call 800-699-9075 (oregon.gov) |
| Shelter and advocacy | 24/7 Call to Safety 503-235-5333/888-235-5333 | Call to Safety program page (ocadsv.org) |
| Address confidentiality | Apply through an ACP Application Assistant | Oregon DOJ ACP (doj.state.or.us) |
| Crime Victims’ Compensation | Reimbursement for medical/counseling, lost wages | Oregon CVC program (doj.state.or.us) |
| 211 resource navigation | Dial 211 or 866-698-6155 (Mon–Fri 8–6) | 211info Contact page (211info.org) |
Oregon Protective Orders and Court Help
Family Abuse Prevention Act (FAPA) Restraining Orders
- What it does: Orders the abuser not to contact you, your home, your work, or your children’s schools; judges can also order the abuser to leave your home. Filing is free. (osbar.org)
- How to start quickly: Use OJD Guide & File for protection orders to answer step‑by‑step questions from any device. You can e‑submit in many counties or print and file at your circuit court clerk’s office. (courts.oregon.gov)
- Timelines to expect: If the other party asks for a hearing, courts typically hold it within 21 days; if temporary custody is in your order, hearings can be scheduled within 5 days. (womenslaw.org)
- Languages and disability access: Courts provide translated forms and interpreters; ask the clerk or facilitator.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Contact local legal aid for help preparing for the hearing; see Oregon Law Center offices or statewide Public Benefits Hotline 800-520-5292. (oregonlawcenter.org, oregonlawhelp.org)
- Ask your county Victim Assistance Program to help you navigate hearings and notifications; find your county’s office on the Oregon DOJ directory. (doj.state.or.us)
Money for Safety, Moving, and Starting Over
Temporary Assistance for Domestic Violence Survivors (TA‑DVS)
- Benefit amount: Up to $3,200 in a 90‑day period; you can receive help more than once a year if needed. Payments go directly to landlords or vendors for safety‑related costs. (oregon.gov)
- What TA‑DVS can cover: Rental deposits, first or last month’s rent, utility deposits, arrears if it keeps you housed, lock changes, security cameras, PO boxes, transportation to leave, and replacing essential items you had to leave behind. (oregon.gov)
- Eligibility basics: Live in Oregon; meet TANF income rules; be pregnant or caring for a minor child; be at risk of domestic violence now or in the future. Talk through eligibility with ODHS to stay safe. (oregon.gov)
- How to apply: Call your local ODHS Self‑Sufficiency office or the statewide line 800-699-9075, or visit the ODHS Domestic Violence Services portal. Staff can help you apply in person, by phone, or by email/fax. (oregon.gov)
- Reality check: TA‑DVS decisions and vendor payments can move fast when life and safety are at stake, but same‑day payments are not guaranteed—have a back‑up plan.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call local DV programs—some have emergency hotel or flexible funds. Use 211 (866-698-6155) to locate options in your county during open hours. (211info.org)
- Ask about OHP housing supports below if you’re on the Oregon Health Plan and meet HRSN rules. (oregon.gov)
Help With Food, Cash, Child Care, and Health Coverage
These are not DV‑specific, but they are the backbone supports many single moms need during a move.
TANF Cash Assistance
- Typical amount: An Oregon family of three with no other income can get up to 506permonth∗∗.ManyTANFfamiliesalsoreceivea∗∗506 per month**. Many TANF families also receive a **270 clothing allowance three times a year (May, August, November) as long as they remain eligible. (oregon.gov)
- DV flexibility: Oregon law allows ODHS to waive work rules, time limits, and child support cooperation if they would increase your DV risk. (oregon.public.law)
How to apply: Use the ONE system at one.oregon.gov or call 800-699-9075 for help. (oregon.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- ODHS has a good‑cause process—tell your worker about safety risks; they can waive requirements and help you enroll in TA‑DVS. (oregon.public.law)
SNAP Food Benefits
- Maximum monthly amounts for FY 2025 (Oct 2024–Sep 2025) in Oregon: Household of 1 292∗∗;∗∗2∗∗∗∗292**; **2** **536; 3 768∗∗;∗∗4∗∗∗∗768**; **4** **975; 5 1,158∗∗;∗∗6∗∗∗∗1,158**; **6** **1,390; 7 1,536∗∗;∗∗8∗∗∗∗1,536**; **8** **1,756; add $220 for each additional person. (fns.usda.gov)
- Apply fast: Online at ONE, by phone with ODHS 800-699-9075, or ask your local DV advocate to help you apply from a safe location. (oregon.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about expedited SNAP, which can start within 7 days if you have extremely low money on hand and income; your ODHS worker can screen you for this. (See SNAP COLA page for standards.) (fns.usda.gov)
Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) Child Care
- Who qualifies: Families under 200% of the Federal Poverty Level at initial approval (higher thresholds—up to 250% FPL or 85% of State Median Income—can apply when renewing) with a work or school schedule. 2025 monthly 200% FPL examples: family of 3 4,442∗∗;∗∗4∗∗∗∗4,442**; **4** **5,359; 5 $6,275. (law.cornell.edu, regulations.justia.com)
- Copays and coverage: Oregon’s ERDC has expanded hours for night shift, travel, and study time; copays vary by income with charts posted by the Department of Early Learning and Care. (oregon.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call 211info Child Care (via 211) to explore licensed providers, Preschool Promise, and waitlists; text “children” to 898211. (211info.org)
Oregon Health Plan (OHP) and Housing‑Related Supports
- OHP coverage: Free coverage for medical, dental, and behavioral health. Adults up to 200% FPL may qualify under OHP Bridge; no premiums or copays. (oregon.gov)
- Health‑Related Social Needs (HRSN) housing benefits for eligible OHP members: For members who meet medical and risk criteria, OHP can fund up to 6 months of rent and utilities (including arrears), storage, tenancy supports, and home safety improvements. Processing is not immediate and can take weeks. Your CCO or OHA can advise you on eligibility and timing. (oregon.gov, careoregon.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If eviction is imminent, contact your local Community Action Agency for emergency rental help and ask a DV advocate about motel funds while HRSN is pending. OHA notes HRSN is not an emergency program. (oregon.gov)
Job and Income Protection When Abuse Disrupts Work
Paid Leave Oregon Safe Leave
- What it is: Up to 12 weeks of paid safe leave (up to 14 for pregnancy‑related limits) to address domestic violence, stalking, harassment, or bias crimes—covering things like court, safety planning, relocation, and counseling. Job protection applies if you’ve worked 90 days for your employer. (paidleave.oregon.gov, oregon.gov)
- How benefits pay: Benefit equals a percentage of your wages using a progressive formula; the maximum weekly benefit equals 120% of Oregon’s State Average Weekly Wage. For benefit years starting on or after July 6, 2025, that maximum is 1,636.56∗∗;theminimumis∗∗1,636.56**; the minimum is **68.19. (Numbers set annually by OED.) Apply via Frances Online. (paidleave.oregon.gov, kykn.com, vensure.com)
- Notice rules: For planned leave, give your employer 30 days notice when you can; for unplanned leave, tell them within 24 hours and follow up in writing within 3 days. You can self‑attest if documentation would put you at risk. (paidleave.oregon.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Contact BOLI if your employer refuses safe leave or retaliates. See BOLI’s DV protections and call for help. (oregon.gov)
Oregon Sick Time and DV Accommodations
- Sick time: All workers earn at least 1 hour of protected sick time for every 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours per year; paid for employers of 10+ (or 6+ in Portland). Sick time can be used for DV‑related care. (oregon.gov)
- DV protections at work: All employers must provide reasonable safety accommodations (schedule changes, transfers, locks, phone changes, unpaid leave) and keep your information confidential. Employers with 6+ employees must allow reasonable leave for legal, medical, counseling, and relocation steps. (oregon.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- File a complaint with BOLI or ask legal aid to write a letter asserting your rights. (oregon.gov)
Unemployment Insurance if You Had to Leave Work
- Good cause: If you quit or lost your job due to domestic violence and can’t safely remain employed there, Oregon law recognizes DV‑related “good cause” in evaluating benefits and work search. Check with OED and note the required waiting week. (unemployment.oregon.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Appeal and add DV documentation (protective order, police report, advocate letter) to your record; legal aid can assist. (oregonlawcenter.org)
Housing Rights and Moving Safely
Federal VAWA Housing Protections
- Emergency transfers: If you are in covered HUD/USDA housing or have a voucher, you can request an emergency transfer when you fear imminent harm or after a sexual assault on the premises within 90 days. Providers must keep your new address confidential. (hud.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- No eviction for being a victim: VAWA prevents denial or termination of housing just because you are a survivor. Ask your PHA or landlord for their VAWA notice and transfer plan.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call your PHA’s VAWA coordinator and ask for the emergency transfer plan and VAWA forms, or contact legal aid to enforce your rights. (hud.gov)
Oregon Address Confidentiality Program (ACP)
- What it does: Gives you a substitute mailing address that you can use for DMV, schools, child support, and court records. Apply through a Certified Application Assistant. ACP phone 503-373-1323 or 888-559-9090. (doj.state.or.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask a local advocate (DV program or county Victim Assistance) to help enroll—staff know where to find Application Assistants by county. (doj.state.or.us)
Oregon Health Plan HRSN Housing Support
- What to know: For OHP members meeting health and risk criteria, CCOs can fund up to 6 months of rent, utility help, storage, tenancy supports, and safety‑related home modifications. Expect 2–6+ weeks for processing depending on the CCO and volume. (oregon.gov, careoregon.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask 211info HRSN intake how to submit your request and what documents you need, and connect with your CCO’s HRSN team. (eocco.com)
Transportation, Phones, and Everyday Logistics
- TriMet reduced fare for low‑income riders: If you live in the Portland tri‑county area and your income is under 200% FPL (or you receive SNAP, TANF, OHP), you can ride with an Honored Citizen Hop card—$28 per month unlimited. Apply online; bring ID. (trimet.org)
- Oregon Lifeline: Get a monthly discount up to 15.25∗∗forphoneor∗∗15.25** for phone or **19.25 for internet, or free cell service through Access Wireless depending on availability. Tribal members on Tribal lands can receive an additional $25 monthly discount and installation help via Link Up. Call the Oregon PUC 800-848-4442 to apply. (oregon.gov, lifelinesupport.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your DV program about bus passes or gas cards—many programs keep small transportation funds for urgent needs. Use 211 to find those. (211info.org)
Crime Victims’ Compensation (CVC): What It Pays and What It Doesn’t
Oregon’s CVC program can reimburse many crime‑related expenses after a DV assault. It does not provide immediate cash and does not pay for relocation. Typical benefits include:
- Medical and counseling: Up to $20,000 (includes grief counseling for family).
- Counseling for children who witnessed DV: Up to $10,000.
- Loss of earnings/support: Up to $800 per week within the program cap.
- Funeral costs: Up to $5,000.
- Crime scene cleanup: Up to $2,500.
- Transportation for medical care: Up to $3,000 (distance rules apply).
Learn more and apply through the Oregon DOJ CVC program. (doj.state.or.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your county Victim Assistance Program to help with the application and required documentation; find the phone for your county in DOJ’s directory. (doj.state.or.us)
Local and Regional Helplines and Shelters
Use these if you need local advocacy, shelter screening, court help, or safety planning right now.
| Area | Organization | 24/7 line | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portland tri‑county (Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas) | Call to Safety | 503-235-5333 / 888-235-5333 | 24/7 crisis support and coordinated access referrals. (ocadsv.org) |
| Multnomah County | Raphael House of Portland | 503-222-6222 | Shelter and coordinated access; multilingual support. (raphaelhouse.com) |
| Clackamas County | Clackamas Women’s Services | 503-654-2288 / 888-654-2288 | 24/7 crisis line and advocacy. (cwsor.wordpress.com) |
| Washington County | Domestic Violence Resource Center | 503-469-8620 / 866-469-8600 | Shelter, counseling, and advocacy. (dvrc-or.org) |
| Lane County (Eugene/Springfield) | Hope & Safety Alliance | 541-485-6513 | 24/7 line, shelter, web chat. (211info.org) |
| Marion & Polk (Salem) | Center for Hope & Safety | 503-399-7722 / 866-399-7722 | 24/7 bilingual advocates. (hopeandsafety.org) |
| Deschutes/Crook/Jefferson (Central OR) | Saving Grace | 541-389-7021 | 24/7 helpline; shelter and legal advocacy. (saving-grace.org) |
| Jackson & Josephine (Southern OR) | Community Works | 541-779-4357 | 24/7 HelpLine; multilingual including ASL. (community-works.org) |
| Linn & Benton (Corvallis/Albany) | CARDV | 541-754-0110 / 800-927-0197 | 24/7 line; shelter and advocacy. (cardv.org) |
| Umatilla & Morrow (Hermiston/Pendleton) | Domestic Violence Services, Inc. | 800-833-1161 | 24/7 crisis line; multiple sites. (dvs-or.org) |
| Lincoln County (Coast) | My Sister’s Place | 541-994-5959 | 24/7 crisis; shelter and legal advocacy. (ocadsv.org) |
| Klamath County | Klamath Advocacy Center | 541-884-0390 | 24/7 helpline; shelter access. (gethelp.211info.org) |
| Hood River/Wasco | Helping Hands | 541-386-6603 | 24/7 local crisis line. (helpinghandsoregon.org) |
If your county isn’t listed, use the Oregon Coalition directory to find programs statewide. (ocadsv.org)
Step‑by‑Step: How to Apply for Key Supports
Application Checklist
- Safety documents: Any restraining order, police report, or advocate letter you already have.
- ID and proof of Oregon residence: For ACP or ODHS benefits.
- Income proofs: Recent pay stubs or self‑statement for TA‑DVS/TANF/SNAP; you can request “good cause” waivers when DV proof is unsafe. (oregon.public.law)
- Lease or rental info: For TA‑DVS and HRSN rent or deposit help. (oregon.gov)
- Child documents: Birth certificates or court orders if applying for TANF or child care.
- Banking: If safe, set up a new account and a safe mailing address (ACP) before funds are issued. (doj.state.or.us)
Tables You Can Scan Fast
TA‑DVS at a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum grant: | $3,200 in 90 days, vendor‑paid. (oregon.gov) |
| Covers: | Rent and utility deposits/arrears, first/last month’s rent, lock changes, cameras, PO boxes, replacement essentials, transport to leave. (oregon.gov) |
| Eligibility basics: | Oregon residence; TANF income limits; pregnant or caring for a minor; risk of DV now or in future. (oregon.gov) |
| Apply: | Local ODHS office or 800-699-9075; request safe contact options. (oregon.gov) |
Food, Cash, Child Care, Health
| Program | 2025 key numbers | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|
| TANF cash | Family of 3 up to 506/month∗∗;clothingallowance∗∗506/month**; clothing allowance **270 in May, Aug, Nov. (oregon.gov) | ONE.Oregon.gov or 800-699-9075. (oregon.gov) |
| SNAP | Max for 4 is $975; see full FY 2025 table above. (fns.usda.gov) | ONE or 800-699-9075. (oregon.gov) |
| ERDC child care | Initial income up to 200% FPL (family of 4 $5,359/mo); redeterminations up to 250% FPL or 85% SMI. (law.cornell.edu) | ERDC info and copays. (oregon.gov) |
| OHP/OHP Bridge | Coverage to 200% FPL for adults; no premiums or copays. (oregon.gov) | OHP Bridge overview. (oregon.gov) |
Paid Leave Oregon Safe Leave
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration: | Up to 12 weeks paid safe leave; 14 for pregnancy‑related limits. (paidleave.oregon.gov) |
| Job protection: | Applies after 90 days with your employer. (paidleave.oregon.gov) |
| Benefit cap: | 120% of SAWW; 1,636.56∗∗maxforbenefityearsstarting∗∗July6,2025∗∗;minimum∗∗1,636.56** max for benefit years starting **July 6, 2025**; minimum **68.19. (kykn.com, vensure.com) |
| How to apply: | File in Frances Online; see Paid Leave Oregon for steps and safe‑leave verification. (paidleave.oregon.gov) |
VAWA Housing Protections
| Right | What it means |
|---|---|
| Emergency transfer: | Request a move to a safe unit when you fear imminent harm or after on‑site sexual assault within 90 days. Confidentiality required. (hud.gov, law.cornell.edu) |
| Keep assistance: | You cannot be denied or lose housing assistance just for being a survivor. Ask for the VAWA notice and forms. (hud.gov) |
211info Access Hours
| Channel | Hours (after July 2025) |
|---|---|
| Phone 211 / 866-698-6155 | Mon–Fri 8am–6pm (core hours; special programs may extend during emergencies). (211info.org) |
| Text ZIP to 898211 | Mon–Fri 9am–5pm; response during open hours. (211info.org) |
| Response within 24 hours on business days. (211info.org) |
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: You can use Paid Leave Oregon’s safe leave and all DV resources regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. For LGBTQ survivors, ask Call to Safety for affirming services and referrals; Deaf/Hard‑of‑Hearing survivors can contact Bridges Oregon after‑hours at 971-375-0672 (call/FaceTime) or 503-339-3566 (video phone), or the National Deaf Hotline 855-812-1001. See Raphael House resource list with Deaf lines. (raphaelhouse.com)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask courts and ODHS for accommodations and non‑public hearing options. Transportation through TriMet’s reduced fare can lower costs to $28/month in the metro area. (trimet.org)
- Veteran single mothers: You can press 1 when calling 988 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line, and you have VAWA housing protections. (fcc.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: You can receive emergency help like TA‑DVS and many services regardless of immigration status. For immigration relief (VAWA self‑petition, U visa), contact Oregon Law Center or county Victim Assistance for referrals. (doj.state.or.us)
- Tribal‑specific resources: StrongHearts Native Helpline 844-762-8483 is 24/7 and culturally specific. If you live on Tribal lands, Oregon Lifeline can add 25∗∗tomonthlyphone/internetdiscountsandprovideLinkUpinstallationhelpupto∗∗25** to monthly phone/internet discounts and provide Link Up installation help up to **100. (thehotline.org, lifelinesupport.org)
- Rural single moms: Expect longer travel times for court and services. Ask your program about hotel vouchers, mileage reimbursement for medical care via CVC (up to $3,000), and telephone/video court options if travel is unsafe. (doj.state.or.us)
- Single fathers: All protections and programs in this guide apply to you too.
- Language access: Courts and agencies provide interpreters; Call to Safety and many hotlines use language lines so you can speak in your preferred language. (ocadsv.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using shared phones or emails for applications when the abuser monitors accounts. Set up a new email and enable two‑factor authentication before you file.
- Waiting to file a protective order until “proof” is perfect. FAPA allows you to file based on sworn information and recent incidents; your judge can act quickly even before the other party is served. (osbar.org)
- Not telling ODHS or your worker about safety risks. Oregon has “good cause” waivers for DV so you don’t have to comply with child support cooperation or work rules that put you in danger. (oregon.public.law)
- Expecting Crime Victims’ Compensation to pay immediately or for moving costs. CVC reimburses approved expenses and does not cover relocation; use TA‑DVS for moving‑related needs. (doj.state.or.us)
What If Plan A Fails
- Couldn’t get a same‑day order? Ask the court facilitator about safety planning and temporary arrangements; call a local advocate to help you re‑file or prepare for the contested hearing. (courts.oregon.gov)
- TA‑DVS funds delayed? Ask your ODHS worker if a partial vendor payment is possible while you wait, and have your advocate request motel funds through local DV programs. (oregon.gov)
- Shelters full? Ask about Coordinated Access in your county (Multnomah uses an SSA screening) and look at hotel vouchers or short‑term rentals through TA‑DVS. (raphaelhouse.com)
- Employer refuses safe leave? File a BOLI complaint and ask legal aid to document retaliation. (oregon.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions (Oregon‑Specific)
- How fast can I get a restraining order approved: Many courts review petitions the same or next business day; if the other party requests a hearing, it is typically held within 21 days, or 5 days if custody is challenged. (womenslaw.org)
- Is there any cost to file a FAPA restraining order: No. Oregon does not charge filing fees for protective orders. (oregonlawhelp.org)
- What if I need to move kids’ schools without revealing our new address: Ask your advocate to enroll you in the ACP first, then use the substitute address for school records. (doj.state.or.us)
- Can I get help paying a past‑due bill if I can stay safely by catching up: Yes—TA‑DVS can pay a one‑time arrearage when it keeps you safely housed. Up to $3,200 total in 90 days. (oregon.gov)
- Will CVC pay to move me: No. Oregon’s CVC does not cover relocation; it reimburses medical/counseling, lost wages, funeral, transportation, and related expenses. (doj.state.or.us)
- Can I take time off work for court without being fired: Yes. Oregon law requires safety accommodations and reasonable leave; employers with 6+ employees must allow DV‑related leave. (oregon.gov)
- How much will Paid Leave Oregon pay me during safe leave: It depends on your wages; the cap is 120% of SAWW (currently 1,636.56∗∗maxweeklyfornewbenefityearsstarting∗∗July6,2025∗∗;minimum∗∗1,636.56** max weekly for new benefit years starting **July 6, 2025**; minimum **68.19). (kykn.com, vensure.com)
- Can I get childcare help if I’m a student: Yes. ERDC no longer requires work if you are a student; it also covers study time and travel time. (oregon.gov)
- I’m scared that child support will tip off my ex to our location: Tell ODHS you need a good‑cause exemption from cooperation; your information can be kept confidential and child support can be paused to protect you and your child. (oregon.public.law)
- I need an Oregon phone and data to make calls safely but can’t afford it: Apply for Oregon Lifeline for free or discounted service; Tribal lands add $25 per month. Call 800-848-4442. (oregon.gov)
Real‑World Examples
- Moving in one weekend with TA‑DVS: A mom in Salem used TA‑DVS to cover a deposit, first month’s rent, and lock changes within the 90‑day window after a police‑documented incident. Payments went directly to the landlord and locksmith, and she used SNAP to stretch her grocery budget while she settled in. (oregon.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- Keeping a job using safe leave: Another mom in Bend took Paid Leave Oregon safe leave to attend court and relocate, then used ERDC to stabilize childcare so she could return to work—her weekly benefit replaced most of her paycheck, capped at $1,636.56. (paidleave.oregon.gov, vensure.com)
- Hiding a new address from school records: A Portland mom enrolled in ACP and then updated kids’ school files with the substitute address so the abuser couldn’t locate them. (doj.state.or.us)
Finding Legal Help
- Oregon Law Center and Legal Aid Services of Oregon: Free civil legal help (family safety, housing, benefits). Find your local office or call the Public Benefits Hotline 800-520-5292. (oregonlawcenter.org, oregonlawhelp.org)
- County Victim Assistance Programs: Advocates in every District Attorney’s office can help with rights, notifications, and safety planning. Use the Oregon DOJ directory to find your county’s phone. (doj.state.or.us)
About the Data and Why It Matters
- Oregon’s recent numbers: 532 Oregonians died in domestic‑violence‑related incidents from 2009–2019; in 2022 there were at least 43 DV‑related homicides statewide, 74% involving firearms. (oregoncapitalchronicle.com, publichealth.jhu.edu)
- Capacity limits are real: Some crisis and 211 lines have constrained hours or long waits; if you can’t get through, try text or email options and ask advocates to call you at a safe time. (211info.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Our team specializes in translating government benefits and legal processes into clear steps for families.
How we research: We use official state and federal sources, court websites, and established nonprofits, and we verify live links and phone numbers. See our Editorial Standards for detail. This guide draws on: Oregon DHS, Oregon DOJ, Oregon Judicial Department, Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries, Paid Leave Oregon (OED), USDA/FNS (SNAP FY 2025), Oregon Health Authority, 211info, HUD/VAWA, and Oregon’s DV programs. (Source citations are provided throughout.)
Last verified: September 2025; next review: April 2026.
Found an error or a broken link: Email info@asinglemother.org. We investigate and correct verified issues within 48 hours per our policy.
Disclaimer
General information only: This guide is not legal advice or case‑specific guidance. Program rules, amounts, and timelines change and may vary by county or case. Always verify with the relevant agency or court before you rely on a benefit or deadline.
Your safety online: If you suspect device monitoring, use a safer device, turn off location sharing, and clear browser history. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Independence: aSingleMother.org is not affiliated with any government agency and does not accept compensation from programs we reference.
Sources and Key Links
- TA‑DVS up to $3,200/90 days and covered items: Oregon DHS TA‑DVS. (oregon.gov)
- FAPA restraining order basics and timelines: Oregon Judicial Department; WomensLaw Oregon FAPA hearing timelines. (courts.oregon.gov, womenslaw.org)
- Address Confidentiality Program and contacts: Oregon DOJ ACP. (doj.state.or.us)
- CVC covered benefits and exclusions: Oregon DOJ CVC FAQs; CVC overview. (doj.state.or.us)
- SNAP FY 2025 maximums: USDA/FNS FY 2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
- TANF amounts and clothing allowance: Oregon DHS TANF. (oregon.gov)
- ERDC income thresholds and copays: Oregon OAR 414‑175‑0050 (2025 thresholds); DELC copays page. (regulations.justia.com, oregon.gov)
- OHP Bridge and HRSN housing supports: OHA OHP Bridge; OHA HRSN Housing; OHA HRSN overview; CCO examples. (oregon.gov, careoregon.org)
- Paid Leave Oregon benefits and safe leave process: Paid Leave Oregon employee pages and FAQs; 2025 max/min WBA figures noted by OED communications. (paidleave.oregon.gov, vensure.com)
- BOLI worker protections for DV survivors and sick time rules: BOLI pages. (oregon.gov)
- VAWA housing emergency transfers and confidentiality: HUD VAWA page; 24 CFR 5.2005. (hud.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- 211info reduced hours and access: 211info press update and contact page. (211info.org)
- Oregon DV fatality context: OPB summary of Oregon Secretary of State advisory report; Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions Oregon brief (DV homicides 2022). (opb.org, publichealth.jhu.edu)
- Local hotline confirmations: Program websites listed in the regional table. (raphaelhouse.com, cwsor.wordpress.com, dvrc-or.org, 211info.org, hopeandsafety.org, saving-grace.org, community-works.org, cardv.org, dvs-or.org, ocadsv.org, gethelp.211info.org, helpinghandsoregon.org)
Need a human to walk you through this: Call Call to Safety at 503-235-5333 or 888-235-5333 (24/7), or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788. (ocadsv.org, thehotline.org)
Stay safe, and use the steps above in the order that keeps you and your kids safest.
🏛️More Oregon Resources for Single Mothers
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