Free School Supplies and Backpacks for Single Mothers in Oregon

Last updated: September 2025

This Oregon‑specific hub shows you where to get real, near‑term help with free backpacks, school supplies, and related support for your kids. It includes statewide programs, district contacts, county variations, and what to do if plan A fails. Keep your kid’s student ID handy, and screenshot the Quick Help box.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call your school’s McKinney‑Vento liaison right now: Ask for immediate help with supplies, enrollment barriers, and transportation. Use the ODE contact list to find the liaison for your district via Oregon Department of Education — McKinney‑Vento Contacts and ask the school office to connect you today. Expect same‑week callbacks in August and early September; follow up daily if urgent. (oregon.gov)
• Dial 211 to locate the next backpack giveaway near you: Ask for “back‑to‑school events” and “school supply drives” in your ZIP code. If your phone won’t dial 211, call 1‑866‑698‑6155 or text your ZIP to 898211 during open hours. Keep checking because events get added daily in late summer. Use 211info’s contact page for hours and alternative contact methods. (211info.org)
• If you get TANF cash aid, watch for the seasonal clothing payment: TANF families may get a $270 non‑recurrent short‑term clothing payment issued automatically in May, August, and November. Check your Oregon Trail (EBT) card and read mailed notices; call 1‑800‑699‑9075 for ODHS benefits help if you don’t see it. See ODHS program update for details. (content.govdelivery.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school for an emergency supply kit and a same‑day referral to a partner nonprofit (Assistance League, Salvation Army, United Way). Also ask for a letter confirming need; bring it to community events to help secure a backpack on the spot. Use Oregon Food Bank’s finder to locate school pantries when a drive has ended. (oregonfoodbank.org)

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Quick Help — Key Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• ODHS benefits help (SNAP/TANF/ERDC): 1‑800‑699‑9075; apply or manage online via Oregon Department of Human Services — Benefits Help and find your local office on Contact ODHS. (oregon.gov)
• 211info (statewide resource search): Dial 211 or 1‑866‑698‑6155; text your ZIP to 898211; see hours at 211info Contact Us and updates at 211info reduced hours. (211info.org)
• Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) hotline: 1‑833‑673‑7328 (833‑ORE‑SEBT); details at Oregon Summer EBT — $120 per eligible child each summer; 2025 returns next summer. (oregon.gov)
• McKinney‑Vento rights and contacts: Use ODE McKinney‑Vento Contacts and ask the school registrar for direct transfer. For district rights summaries, see ODE McKinney‑Vento program page. (oregon.gov)
• WIC for families with kids under 5: Check 2025 income limits and apply via OHA — WIC Eligibility; it frees up cash for school items. (oregon.gov)

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How Oregon’s Free Back‑to‑School Support Usually Works

Most school supply help flows through your child’s school or district partners. Start with your school office and ask three things: “Who is our McKinney‑Vento contact?”, “Do we have a supply closet?”, and “Who is our community partner for backpacks?” The district liaison can arrange supplies, enrollment without documents, and transportation when housing is unstable through Oregon’s McKinney‑Vento program, and they can refer you to local events listed by 211info. (oregon.gov)

Reality check: Many events run out early. Bring kids’ names, school, grade, and student ID if you have it. Ask the organizer for “priority tickets” if you missed the first distribution; this matters at events like Project Hope in Lane County and similar district‑ticketed fairs. (onehopenetwork.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school for a written needs note and go to a Salvation Army or United Way drive; Portland Metro’s Salvation Army — Back to School distribution and United Way’s Stuff the Bus — Columbia County are examples that replenish supplies as donations arrive. (portland.salvationarmy.org)

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What You Can Get and Where — Statewide Snapshot

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your principal for “emergency kits” from teachers’ rooms supplied by partners like Schoolhouse Supplies (Free Store) and for a one‑time voucher or referral to Assistance League — Operation School Bell in your area. (schoolhousesupplies.org)

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Oregon’s Largest Community Providers of Backpacks and Supplies

Portland Metro — where to go first

• Schoolhouse Supplies (Multnomah County): Teachers shop free to stock classrooms, and the Tools for Schools program builds student kits that often flow through your school office. Ask your teacher if your school is on the eligible list. See Free Store for Teachers and 2025 registration details; families can also order kits via Schoolhouse Supplies Online (those sales fund free kits for low‑income schools). (schoolhousesupplies.org)
• Assistance League — Operation School Bell (Clothing): Greater Portland’s chapter outfits thousands of students with new clothing each year; ask your school counselor for a referral. Learn more at Operation School Bell — Greater Portland and check sister chapters in Eugene and Klamath Basin. (assistanceleague.org)
• Salvation Army (Moore Street & Metro units): Seasonal Back‑to‑School fairs with pre‑registration, backpacks, and community resources. Watch Portland Salvation Army events and local media alerts about statewide donation drives with Fred Meyer. (portland.salvationarmy.org)
• SUN Community Schools + Oregon Food Bank: Many SUN sites host school food pantries and backpack‑style programs; ask your SUN site manager. See SUN Food Sites and SUN Community Schools. (multco.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use 211 to find a church‑run “Clothes Closet” or the PTA Clothing Center (PPS), which provides clothing to referred PPS students; ask your school office for the referral form. (portlandcouncilpta.org)

Willamette Valley — Salem / Keizer and nearby

• Salem‑Keizer McKinney‑Vento Program: Offers supplies, transport, and school stability supports; call 503‑391‑4060 or email the liaison via SKPS McKinney‑Vento. Combine this with 211 searches for backpack events in Marion and Polk counties. (salkeiz.k12.or.us)
• United Way and community fairs: Check with United Way of the Mid‑Willamette Valley (site not cited here) and schools for late‑summer drives; plan to arrive early.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a letter of need from the school counselor, bring it to Salvation Army distribution days if listed, or ask for a direct school supply kit from the district’s warehouse.

Lane County — Eugene / Springfield / Junction City

• Project Hope (One Hope Network): Ticketed Kids’ Fair Giveaways deliver backpacks, supplies, and new shoes; tickets are distributed by districts (4J, Bethel, Junction City, Springfield) before the event. Learn timeline and FAQs at Project Hope and Project Hope FAQ. (onehopenetwork.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul of Lane County: Supports Project Hope with donation drives and outreach; if tickets are gone, ask SVdP stores or staff how to connect with remaining supplies. See SVdP x Project Hope. (svdp.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your school’s McKinney‑Vento liaison for a direct backpack referral and ask for emergency clothing help from Assistance League — Eugene. (assistanceleague.org)

Central Oregon — Bend / Redmond / Sisters / La Pine

• Family Access Network (FAN): Each school has a FAN advocate who can get supplies, clothing, hygiene kits, and more. Call 541‑693‑5675 or use your school’s contacts listed in Bend‑La Pine family resources. (bend.k12.or.us)
• District supplies policy: Bend‑La Pine provides classroom materials; families may only need to bring a backpack, water bottle, or headphones. If you can’t afford these, ask your FAN advocate for help. See Get a Jump on 2025‑26. (bend.k12.or.us)
• Assistance League — Bend (Operation School Bell): Clothing vouchers ($100–$125 based on grade) via school referral or FAN; check current numbers and process at Assistance League — Bend OSB. (assistanceleague.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your principal for a short‑term loaner backpack, and request a rush referral to OSB or a local church drive listed by 211.

Southern Oregon — Medford / Grants Pass / Klamath Falls

• Assistance League — Klamath Basin (OSB): Provides clothing vouchers and hygiene kits, often with Fred Meyer shopping nights; contact through the school counselor. See AL Klamath Basin OSB. (klamathbasinassistanceleague.org)
• Salvation Army & local drives: Watch for county‑level drives and school district notices; 211 will list them as they’re scheduled. Use 211info contact options. (211info.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school’s homeless liaison for a same‑day set of supplies and a clothing referral to OSB while you wait.

North Coast, Columbia County, and Columbia Gorge

• Stuff the Bus (Columbia County): Summer donation drive that supplies local school distribution sites in Rainier, St. Helens, and surrounding communities; ask your school office how to receive a kit. See United Way of Columbia County — Stuff the Bus 2025. (unitedwayofcolumbiacounty.com)
• Columbia Gorge food and school supports: Many schools work with the Oregon Food Bank network; ask about on‑campus pantries and school supply closets. (oregonfoodbank.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 and ask for “school supplies — Columbia County” or “Gorge school pantries” to find upcoming distributions.

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District and School‑Run Closets You Should Know

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the office if your school receives teacher kits from Schoolhouse Supplies and whether they have a back‑up stash for students in crisis. (schoolhousesupplies.org)

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Save Money on Groceries So You Can Afford a Backpack

• SNAP (Oregon Trail Card) fast track: If your income is very low or your shelter costs are higher than income, ask to be screened for expedited benefits, which must be issued within 7 days if you qualify. Standard SNAP decisions are due within 30 days; interviews should happen within 20 days. Apply online or call 1‑800‑699‑9075. See ODHS timelines (OAR 461‑115‑0210) and expedited rule details (OAR 461‑135‑0575). (oregon.public.law)
• 2025 SNAP income guidelines (Oregon uses 200% FPL): Oregon applies Broad‑Based Categorical Eligibility to 200% FPL; the 10/2024–9/2025 gross monthly income limits are $2,510(1),$3,407 (2), $4,304(3),$5,200 (4). Check ODHS’s current table and apply online. (fns.usda.gov)
• WIC for kids under 5: WIC has 2025 income limits (185% FPL) and provides monthly food and nutrition help; apply to free up cash for school costs. See OHA WIC — Eligibility. (oregon.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use Oregon Food Bank’s finder to locate a school pantry or SUN site near you and ask staff for any remaining school supply kits. (oregonfoodbank.org)

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Clothing Help That Often Comes With Backpacks

• Operation School Bell (Assistance League chapters): Clothing vouchers and shopping nights via Greater Portland, Eugene, Bend, and Klamath Basin chapters; request a school referral. See Portland OSB, Eugene OSB, Bend OSB, and Klamath Basin OSB. (assistanceleague.org)
• TANF Seasonal Clothing Payment: If you’re on TANF, budget around the automatic $270 clothing payment issued in May, August, and November. Keep your card safe from skimming; ODHS mails notices. Details: ODHS update. (content.govdelivery.com)
• Domestic violence safety funds (TA‑DVS): If you had to leave home quickly and lost kids’ clothes and supplies, TA‑DVS may replace “essential items left behind” as part of a safety plan (up to $3,200/90 days). Apply through your local ODHS office. See TA‑DVS. (oregon.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your liaison or FAN advocate to combine a clothing voucher (OSB) with a backpack drive appointment and a SNAP expedited application.

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Oregon Requirements That Can Affect School Entry

• Immunization exclusion date: Oregon law sets exclusion on the third Wednesday in February each school year. In 2025, schools enforced exclusion on Feb 19, 2025. Call your clinic or a School‑Based Health Center for catch‑up shots. See OAR 333‑050‑0080 and district reminders like Bend‑La Pine’s immunization update. (oregon.public.law)
• Where to verify vaccine rules: Review OHA’s school requirements and ask the school nurse for the local process. Your McKinney‑Vento liaison can help enroll your student even if records are missing while you gather documents via ODE McKinney‑Vento. (oregon.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school for a temporary enrollment under McKinney‑Vento while you obtain records; request help scheduling a clinic visit.

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Resources by Region — Who to Contact for a Backpack Fast

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 during open hours and ask for “school supply distribution in [your county] this week” and “school resource centers.”

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Diverse Communities — Targeted Help and Access

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your SUN school or district if they offer LGBTQ‑affirming supports, counseling referrals, and fee waivers; SUN highlights culturally specific and LGBTQ services in Multnomah County. Use SUN Service System and request a confidential referral through your school office. For everyday needs, 211 can list inclusive providers; use 211info texting/email options and ask for language interpretation if needed. (multco.us)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Your liaison can help enroll immediately while you gather IEP/504 paperwork and supply lists. Ask about home‑hospital instruction or device needs. For free books in accessible formats, use State Library of Oregon — Talking Books, and request school‑based pantries through Oregon Food Bank’s finder to free up money for supplies. (oregon.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Contact ODVA — Women Veterans for a benefits review and referrals; ask about emergency grants or connection to local drives through your county veteran service officer. For K‑12 supports, still route through the school liaison or office for backpack referrals. (oregon.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: You can get school supplies regardless of immigration status. For wraparound help (English classes, youth programs, resource navigation), connect with IRCO and ask about SUN school services. For legal questions on public charge and benefits, contact SOAR Immigration Legal Services and ask ODHS Refugee Services about case management. (irco.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources: In Portland, NAYA Family Center supports Native youth and families with education and culture‑based services; in Grand Ronde, the CTGR Education Department and Youth Education offer academic and youth supports. Ask your school to coordinate with tribal liaisons for supplies. (nayapdx.org)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Call 211 and request mail‑out supply kits if travel is a barrier, and ask schools about local churches running “Backpack Buddies” or pantry programs. Use Oregon Food Bank and request school‑based pickup times that fit your schedule. (oregonfoodbank.org)
• Single fathers: Every resource above applies regardless of gender. Ask the school liaison for the same referrals and support. Use 211info for parenting classes, car seat clinics, and supply drives that welcome dads. (211info.org)
• Language access and accessibility: 211 offers interpretation by phone; TTY users dial 7‑1‑1 then 1‑866‑698‑6155. Ask for large‑print forms or translated materials at your school office. See 211info Contact and note interpreter/TTY options. (211info.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a school‑based “warm handoff” to a culturally specific provider (NAYA, IRCO, tribal education department) and request same‑week supply support while paperwork processes.

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How to Apply or Get Referred — Steps You Can Take Today

• To get a backpack through your school
  • Ask the office: Who is our McKinney‑Vento liaison?
  • Request a referral for emergency supplies and a backpack.
  • Ask for a list of partner events (Salvation Army, United Way, churches) and whether your student already has a ticket.
  • If you can’t reach staff, email the principal, cc the counselor, and ask for a same‑day callback.
  • Use ODE’s contact lists to reach the liaison directly if needed. (oregon.gov)
• To find the next public distribution
  • Call or text 211 and ask for “school supply drives” in your city.
  • Search your county page and local United Way for “Stuff the Bus,” like United Way of Columbia County.
  • Check Salvation Army Portland and your local Corps page for sign‑ups. (unitedwayofcolumbiacounty.com)
• To stretch your budget for school
  • Apply for SNAP (ask for expedited) and WIC; see SNAP income table and WIC 2025 guidelines. (oregon.gov)
  • If you receive TANF, plan around the August clothing payment; if it’s missing, call 1‑800‑699‑9075. See ODHS update. (content.govdelivery.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a one‑time crisis voucher from your school or parish partner, and use school pantries to free up cash for a backpack.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting the school route: Many drives distribute through schools first. Always ask the office for referrals and tickets before waiting in a public line. Use ODE McKinney‑Vento contacts and your district’s homeless education page. (oregon.gov)
• Arriving late to popular events: Backpacks go fast. Check 211info a day before and morning of the event; arrive early with a tote for extras. (211info.org)
• Not asking about clothing support: Pair a backpack with a clothing voucher through Operation School Bell or FAN to set your student up for the whole term. (assistanceleague.org)
• Skipping SNAP expedited screening: If your fridge is empty, ask ODHS for expedited SNAP (7‑day timeline) and use Oregon Food Bank’s finder to cover lunches while you wait. (oregon.public.law)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your liaison for a “priority note” and bring it to the next distribution or school partner office.

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Reality Check — Delays, Shortages, and What You Can Do

• Late shipments and volunteer shortages: Some drives reduce quantities when donations run short. Ask your school if they receive teacher kits from Schoolhouse Supplies and whether your child can get a desk kit now and a backpack later. (schoolhousesupplies.org)
• Call center and 211 wait times: 211 reduced phone hours in 2025; text or email during posted hours for a callback. Use 211info hours to plan. (211info.org)
• Processing times for benefits: SNAP standard is 30 days; expedited can be 7 days. Keep documents ready and answer your phone to avoid delays. See OAR 461‑115‑0210. (oregon.public.law)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisor call‑back at 211 or ODHS, and request your school liaison email a partner directly to reserve a kit.

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)

• Student info: Name, grade, school, student ID (if known)
• Parent info: Photo ID (any form), phone and email
• Address or shelter info: Current mailing address or school office contact
• Proof of need (if asked): SNAP/TANF/WIC card, or school letter
• Special sizes or needs: Shoe/clothing sizes, allergies, special supplies
• Plan B list: Two alternate events from 211info and a school contact name for follow‑up. (211info.org)

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If Your Application Gets Denied (or Tickets Are Gone)

• Ask for the reason in writing: This helps your school or 211 advocate fix it fast.
• Request a supervisor review: At ODHS or the event partner, ask for a same‑day supervisor callback.
• Use other doors: Ask your liaison for a one‑time “supply closet” pull, and pair it with a clothing referral to Operation School Bell while you wait. (assistanceleague.org)
• Apply for SNAP expedited: If you’re out of food, expedited SNAP can free cash for a backpack within a week. See OAR 461‑135‑0575 and apply through ODHS SNAP. (oregon.public.law)

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County‑Specific Variations Worth Knowing

• Bend‑La Pine: The district covers classroom supplies; ask for help with a backpack through your FAN advocate. (bend.k12.or.us)
• Portland (PPS): Clothing help routes through the PTA Clothing Center; many schools also partner with Schoolhouse Supplies. (portlandcouncilpta.org)
• Lane County: Backpacks often require district‑distributed Project Hope tickets. (onehopenetwork.org)
• Washington County (Beaverton): Students can shop at Clothes for Kids by appointment via the school. (beaverton.k12.or.us)

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Frequently Asked Questions (Oregon‑specific)

• How do I get a backpack if we’re living with family or in a motel?
  Ask the school office for the McKinney‑Vento liaison and say you need a backpack plus enrollment help. The liaison can approve immediate enrollment and supplies even if you lack records. Use the ODE liaison list. (oregon.gov)
• Is there still Summer EBT in Oregon?
  Yes. Oregon’s Summer EBT gives $120 per eligible child each summer; the 2024 program ended, and the state says it will be back in summer 2025. Keep your address current: 1‑833‑673‑7328 or see Oregon Summer EBT. Benefits expire 122 days after issuance. (oregon.gov)
• Can I get help if I’m not on SNAP?
  Yes. Many drives are open to all students; others use school referrals. Also, Oregon SNAP uses 200% FPL for most households, so you may qualify. See SNAP income limits and USDA BBCE listing showing Oregon at 200% FPL. (oregon.gov)
• How long will SNAP take? I need lunch items now.
  Expedited SNAP must be issued within 7 days if you qualify; standard processing is up to 30 days. Meanwhile, use Oregon Food Bank’s finder and ask for school pantry hours. (oregon.public.law)
• We left home fast due to violence and have nothing — can programs replace our kids’ clothes?
  Yes. TA‑DVS can fund essential items left behind (clothes, basics) as part of your safety plan (up to $3,200 in 90 days). Apply via your local ODHS office; see TA‑DVS program. (oregon.gov)
• Do districts ever provide classroom supplies?
  Bend‑La Pine provides classroom materials; families usually only need a backpack and a few personal items. In other districts, ask your school about supply closets and teacher kits from Schoolhouse Supplies. (bend.k12.or.us)
• Where can I get free books for my younger kids?
  Enroll children 0–5 in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library — Oregon for monthly books; older kids can receive books through SMART Reading events and local book banks. (imaginationlibrary.com)
• Who do I call for a general benefits question?
  ODHS Benefits line 1‑800‑699‑9075, or contact your local office through Contact ODHS. (oregon.gov)
• Do I need vaccine records to enroll?
  Schools must enroll McKinney‑Vento students immediately even if records are missing; work with the school nurse to catch up before exclusion day (third Wednesday in February). (oregon.public.law)
• My teen needs work supplies (calculator, binder) we can’t afford. Any options?
  Ask the counselor to request a “supply closet” pull, check for Assistance League OSB help, and call 211 to find STEM‑oriented supply drives near you. (assistanceleague.org)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Oregon Today

• Call for energy help now: Ask 211 about LIHEAP and local funds. See OHA’s community page linking to Oregon Energy Fund and LIHEAP under “Utilities,” and ask about same‑day holds with your utility. See OHA — Community Resources. (oregon.gov)
• Tell the school liaison: They can add a note to your file and ask partners to prioritize your family for a supply kit while you stabilize your bill.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a supervisor at your energy assistance agency, ask for a crisis appointment, and use school pantries for two weeks to free cash for a partial payment.

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Tables — Eligibility and Contacts at a Glance

2025 Income Guides — Quick View (Oregon)

Check details at SNAP eligibility page and OHA’s WIC 2025 income page. (oregon.gov)

Key State/Federal Agencies (Save These)

(oregon.gov)

Major Oregon Community Programs (By Use Case)

School‑Linked Clothing/Supplies — District Examples

(portlandcouncilpta.org)

Summer EBT and Food Help

(oregon.gov)

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Real‑World Scenarios and Tips

• You just moved across town, bus routes are different, and you need supplies: Ask your school to keep your child at their “school of origin” under McKinney‑Vento until you stabilize. Request transport and supplies today through the liaison using ODE contacts. (oregon.gov)
• Your child’s teacher sent a long supply list you can’t afford: Email the teacher and counselor. Ask if your school is supplied by Schoolhouse Supplies or has a “supply closet,” and request a full kit. (schoolhousesupplies.org)
• You’re fleeing violence and left everything: Ask ODHS about TA‑DVS to replace essential items, and tell your school so they can fast‑track supplies and enrollment. (oregon.gov)

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Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Traducción producida con herramientas de IA. Verifique los detalles por teléfono o en los sitios oficiales.

• Mochilas y útiles escolares: Llame a la oficina de la escuela y pida hablar con el enlace de McKinney‑Vento. Consulte la lista de contactos en Educación de Oregón — McKinney‑Vento. (oregon.gov)
• Busque eventos cercanos: Marque 211 o 1‑866‑698‑6155; envíe su código postal al 898211. Vea 211info Contacto para horarios y opciones por texto/correo. (211info.org)
• Pago de ropa (familias TANF): En mayo, agosto y noviembre, ODHS emite $270 por hijo para ropa de temporada. Revise su tarjeta EBT y actualización de ODHS; dudas al 1‑800‑699‑9075. (content.govdelivery.com)
• Comida de verano: Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) entrega $120 por niño en verano. Llame al 1‑833‑673‑7328 o visite Oregon Summer EBT. (oregon.gov)
• WIC y SNAP: WIC tiene límites de ingresos 2025 en OHA WIC; SNAP usa 200% FPL (vea SNAP Oregón). (oregon.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Oregon Department of Education — McKinney‑Vento and McKinney‑Vento Contacts. (oregon.gov)
• Oregon Department of Human Services — Benefits Help, SNAP Eligibility, and ODHS program update on clothing payment. (oregon.gov)
• Oregon Health Authority — WIC 2025 income and immunization rules including OAR 333‑050‑0080. (oregon.gov)
• 211info statewide resource directory and service hours update. (211info.org)
• Major Oregon nonprofits: Schoolhouse Supplies, Assistance League chapters, Oregon Food Bank, Project Hope — One Hope, and Salvation Army Portland. (schoolhousesupplies.org)

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general informational purposes only. Program funding, eligibility, and event dates change frequently. Always confirm availability and requirements directly with the agency or school. For urgent safety needs, dial 911. For domestic violence safety planning and flexible help replacing essentials, contact your local ODHS office about TA‑DVS and ask about confidential advocates on site. (oregon.gov)

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Bonus: Quick School Supply Strategy for This Week

• Email your teacher: Ask if the class can provide a kit now. Mention your school’s connection to Schoolhouse Supplies (many Portland‑area schools receive restocks). (schoolhousesupplies.org)
• Call 211 in the morning: Ask for “today or tomorrow backpack events” in your ZIP, and note required documents. Use 211info contact options. (211info.org)
• Ask the school liaison for a same‑day referral: Even when public events are out, schools often have a few reserved kits for emergency situations through McKinney‑Vento or a partner agency. (oregon.gov)

Stay firm, keep asking, and use the Plan B paths above. Most Oregon districts and partners keep extra kits for families who speak up.

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🏛️More Oregon Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Oregon

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