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housing assistance in oregon

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Oregon

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Oregon

Last updated: August 2025

Information verified with current program data as of August 12, 2025


Main Points

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately or text your zip code to 898211. Available 24/7 for emergency housing referrals.

Can’t pay utilities? Contact your local Community Action Agency for crisis utility assistance up to $750.

Need rent help now? Call Oregon Eviction Defense Project at (888) 585-9638 if you have a court summons. For general rental assistance, contact your Community Action Agency.

In danger? Oregon Domestic Violence Hotline: (866) 935-3787 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance Program (OERAP) – CLOSED

Program Status Update: The Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance Program is closed due to exhausted funds. The program helped thousands of renters during the COVID-19 pandemic but is no longer accepting new applications as of 2025.

Alternative emergency assistance: Contact your local Community Action Agency or call 2-1-1 for current emergency rental assistance that may be available in your county.

Community Action Agency Emergency Assistance

Oregon has Community Action Agencies in every county providing emergency assistance. These agencies offer the frontline defense against homelessness through various funding sources.

What they provide:

  • Emergency rental assistance (amounts vary by county and funding)
  • Utility shut-off prevention
  • Security deposit assistance
  • Moving assistance
  • Case management and referrals

Eligibility: Generally serves households at or below 60-80% of Area Median Income, with priority for families facing imminent eviction.

How to apply: Contact your county’s Community Action Agency directly. Most require in-person or phone appointments to assess your situation.

Processing time: Emergency cases are typically processed within 48-72 hours, but funding availability varies by season and demand.

Reality check: Emergency assistance is limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t wait if you’re facing eviction – apply immediately and to multiple agencies if available in your area.

Oregon Eviction Prevention Rapid Response (EPRR)

The EPRR program assists households with active eviction court cases. This is specifically for families who already have a court summons for eviction.

Eligibility requirements:

  • Must have an active eviction court case number
  • Meet income level requirements (typically 80% AMI or below)
  • Have not received OHCS assistance in current biennium (July 2023 – June 2025)

Application process: Applications open periodically. Contact (833) 746-8167 or email oreprr@pplfirst.com for current status.

Coverage: Past-due rent, court fees, and moving costs related to eviction prevention.

2-1-1 Oregon

Call 2-1-1 or visit 211info.org for immediate referrals to emergency assistance in your area. Text your zip code to 898211 for mobile access.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program is Oregon’s largest rental assistance program. Families typically pay 30% of their income toward rent, with the voucher covering the remainder.

Income Eligibility (2025)

Source: HUD Income Limits 2025

Metro Area 1 Person (50% AMI) 2 People (50% AMI) 3 People (50% AMI) 4 People (50% AMI)
Portland $43,400 $49,600 $55,800 $62,000
Eugene $35,100 $40,100 $45,100 $50,100
Salem $37,850 $43,250 $48,650 $54,050
Bend $42,000 $48,000 $54,000 $60,000

These are maximum income limits for very low-income designation. Extremely low-income limits (30% AMI) are lower and receive priority.

Priority groups:

  • Families experiencing homelessness
  • Families with disabilities
  • Elderly households
  • Families paying more than 50% of income for rent

Oregon’s anti-discrimination law: As of 2019, landlords in Oregon cannot refuse Section 8 vouchers. This source of income discrimination protection makes Oregon more voucher-friendly than many states.

Current Waiting List Status (August 2025)

Source: Affordable Housing Online

Housing Authority Status Estimated Wait Time
Home Forward (Portland) Closed 2-3 years
Eugene Housing Authority Limited openings 1-2 years
Salem Housing Authority Closed 1-2 years
Washington County Periodic openings 1-2 years

Reality check: According to current data, Oregon housing authorities have waiting lists averaging 1-3 years, with Portland experiencing the longest waits. Many housing authorities close their waiting lists when they become too long. Check current waiting list status before applying.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Metro Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
Portland $1,297 $1,593 $2,168 $2,627
Eugene $1,078 $1,347 $1,847 $2,235
Salem $1,023 $1,268 $1,730 $2,094
Bend $1,395 $1,742 $2,387 $2,890

These are maximum amounts Section 8 will pay toward rent in each area.

Public Housing

Public housing developments are owned and operated by local housing authorities. Rent is typically 30% of adjusted income.

Major Oregon Public Housing Authorities:

  • Home Forward (Portland): Operates 4,000+ public housing units
  • Eugene Housing Authority: Serves Eugene and Springfield area
  • Salem Housing Authority: Covers Marion and Polk counties

Pros:

  • More affordable than Section 8 in high-rent areas
  • Stable housing with on-site management
  • Some properties offer supportive services

Cons:

  • Very limited locations
  • Long waiting lists (often longer than Section 8)
  • Less choice in neighborhoods

Oregon Health Plan Housing Benefits (NEW 2024)

Oregon became the first state to offer statewide rental assistance through Medicaid. This program launched in November 2024 for qualifying Oregon Health Plan members.

Eligibility requirements:

  • Must be enrolled in Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid)
  • Have qualifying health condition or life transition (pregnancy, chronic illness, disability, repeated emergency room visits)
  • Income at or below 30% of area median income
  • Not currently homeless (program prevents homelessness, doesn’t house the homeless)

Benefits available:

  • Up to 6 months of rental assistance
  • Utility payments and deposits
  • Security deposits and application fees
  • Moving costs up to $2,500

Income limits for 30% AMI (2025):

Family Size Portland Eugene Salem Statewide Average
1 person $26,040 $21,060 $22,710 $21,000
2 people $29,760 $24,060 $25,950 $24,000
3 people $33,480 $27,060 $29,190 $27,000
4 people $37,200 $30,060 $32,430 $30,000

How to apply: Contact your Oregon Health Plan provider (CareOregon, Health Share, etc.) or visit the Oregon Health Authority HRSN website.

Reality check: This is a new program and processing times can be several months. It’s not for emergency situations – if you have an eviction notice, contact Community Action Agencies instead.

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills. Oregon’s program is administered by local Community Action Agencies.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Source: LIHEAP Clearinghouse

Benefit Type Amount Range
Heating Assistance $250 – $750
Cooling Assistance $250 – $750
Crisis Assistance Up to $750

Income Eligibility (60% State Median Income)

Source: Oregon State Median Income Guidelines

Household Size Maximum Annual Income
1 person $39,540
2 people $51,720
3 people $63,900
4 people $76,080
5 people $88,260

Application periods:

  • General public: October 1 – June 30 annually
  • Priority outreach (seniors, disabled, families with children under 6): October – November

Required documents:

  • Photo ID for utility account holder
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Recent utility bills or shut-off notices
  • Proof of income for previous month for all household members 18+

How to apply: Contact your local Community Action Agency. Find yours by calling (800) 453-5511 or visiting the LIHEAP provider directory.

Processing time: Typically 2-3 weeks after complete application submission.

Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP)

OEAP is a year-round program funded by utility customer contributions. It provides assistance to customers of Pacific Power and Portland General Electric.

Income limits: Generally the same as LIHEAP (60% state median income)

Benefits: One-time bill payment assistance, varies by utility company and funding availability

How to apply: Contact the Community Action Agency in your county

Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) – ENDED

Program Status: LIHWAP was a temporary program that ended. However, some Community Action Agencies may still offer water bill assistance through other funding sources. Contact your local agency for current water assistance programs.

Homeownership Programs

USDA Rural Housing Programs

Section 502 Direct Loans

The USDA Section 502 program helps low-income families buy homes in rural areas with no down payment.

Current rates: 5.00% fixed interest rate, potentially reduced to as low as 1% with payment assistance subsidy

Loan terms: Up to 33 years (38 years for very low-income applicants)

Payment assistance: Temporary subsidy based on adjusted family income to reduce monthly payments

Eligibility requirements:

  • Adjusted income at or below low-income limits for the area
  • Unable to obtain conventional financing
  • Property must be in USDA-eligible rural area
  • U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen

Oregon USDA Rural Development Office: Phone: (866) 923-5626, Extension 1 Address: 1220 SW 3rd Avenue, Suite 1801, Portland, OR 97204

Section 504 Home Repair Loans and Grants

This program helps very low-income rural homeowners repair their homes.

Oregon Pilot Program Enhancement: Through a pilot program, Oregon applicants may be eligible for higher loan and grant amounts – up to $40,000 for loans and $10,000 for grants.

Standard amounts:

  • Loans: Up to $40,000 at 1% interest for 20 years (Oregon pilot)
  • Grants: Up to $10,000 lifetime limit (must be 62+ years old)
  • Combined assistance: Up to $50,000 total

Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) Programs

Homeowner Assistance Fund: Helps homeowners behind on mortgage payments due to COVID-19. Maximum $60,000 in total assistance.

Available programs:

  • Past-Due Payment Relief Program: Up to $50,000 for past-due balances
  • Ongoing Payment Relief Program: Up to 6 months and $10,000 for monthly payments

Oregon First-Time Homebuyer Programs

Oregon Bond Residential Loan Program: Below-market interest rate loans for qualified first-time homebuyers

Down Payment Assistance: Various programs offer grants and loans for down payment and closing costs

Individual Development Accounts (IDAs): Matched savings programs to help build down payment funds

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

My Father’s House

My Father’s House provides shelter for up to 28 families in self-contained units with kitchenettes and private baths.

Services include:

  • Individual, couple and family counseling
  • Life skills classes including renter education
  • Parenting skills training
  • Childcare during classes
  • Case management

Contact: (503) 492-3046

Location: Portland metro area

Shepherds Door

12-month residential program consisting of addiction recovery, life skills training, and spiritual renewal.

Services:

  • Hot meals 3 times daily
  • Workout facility and garden access
  • Computer lab and job training
  • Independent living training

Domestic Violence Housing

Oregon Coalition Against Domestic Violence

24/7 Statewide Hotline: (866) 935-3787

Services:

  • Emergency shelter placement
  • Transitional housing programs
  • Rapid rehousing assistance
  • Safety planning and support services
  • Legal advocacy

Temporary Assistance for Domestic Violence Survivors

Oregon DHS provides assistance for low-income parents/caregivers who are victims of domestic violence. Eligible households can access up to $1,200 over a 90-day period.

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

Oregon has strong anti-discrimination protections, but LGBTQ+-specific housing resources are limited. However, several organizations provide affirming support:

State resources:

  • Oregon Equality Act prohibits housing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity
  • Fair Housing Council of Oregon: (800) 424-3247 – handles LGBTQ+ discrimination complaints

National resources:

  • National LGBTQ Task Force: Housing discrimination information and legal resources
  • SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Senior housing resources for LGBTQ+ older adults

Local support:

  • Cascade AIDS Project: Resource referrals and support services
  • Pride Foundation: Emergency assistance grants for LGBTQ+ individuals and families
  • Contact 2-1-1 and specifically ask about LGBTQ+-affirming housing providers and services

Tribal-Specific Resources

Oregon has nine federally recognized tribes, each with their own housing programs and services.

Tribal Housing Authorities:

HUD Indian Housing Programs: Available to enrolled tribal members nationwide

  • Contact HUD’s Office of Native American Programs: (800) 955-2232
  • Tribal members may qualify for additional housing assistance regardless of where they live in Oregon

Native American Housing Assistance:

  • Oregon Native American Chamber: Resource referrals and business support
  • Urban Native housing programs available in Portland through organizations like NAYA (Native American Youth & Family Center)

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural families face unique challenges including limited transportation, fewer service providers, and higher costs for basic services.

Specialized resources:

  • USDA Rural Development programs (detailed above) – specifically designed for rural areas
  • Oregon’s 36 counties all have Community Action Agencies that provide outreach services to rural areas
  • Mobile service delivery available in some counties
  • Telehealth and virtual support services through Oregon Health Plan

Transportation assistance:

  • Community Action Agencies often provide gas cards or transportation vouchers for essential appointments
  • Non-emergency medical transportation available through Oregon Health Plan
  • Some rural areas have volunteer driver programs for essential services

Internet access support:

  • Oregon Lifeline program: Reduces monthly phone/broadband costs for qualifying households
  • Libraries provide free internet access and application assistance
  • Mobile hotspot lending programs in some rural counties

Single Fathers

While this guide focuses on single mothers, single fathers face similar housing challenges and can access identical programs with the same eligibility requirements.

All housing assistance programs described above are available regardless of gender

Additional resources:

  • National At-Home Dad Network: Support groups and resources for stay-at-home fathers
  • Single Father Network: Online community with local Oregon chapters
  • Fathers’ rights organizations in Oregon provide legal advocacy and resource referrals

Unique considerations for single fathers:

  • Some transitional housing programs may have gender-specific facilities
  • Domestic violence services for male survivors: Oregon’s programs serve all genders
  • Parenting resources specifically designed for single fathers available through county family services

Resources by Region

Portland Metro Area (Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas Counties)

Home Forward

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Public housing
  • Homeownership programs
  • Phone: (503) 802-8300
  • Address: 135 SW Ash Street, Portland, OR 97204

Community Action Organization of Washington County

  • Emergency rental assistance
  • LIHEAP utility assistance
  • Rent Well education classes
  • Phone: (971) 223-6020

Clackamas County Social Services

  • Housing Choice Vouchers (serves ~1,500 families)
  • Emergency assistance
  • Phone: (503) 650-5640

Central Oregon (Bend, Redmond, Prineville)

NeighborImpact

  • Emergency rental assistance
  • First-time homebuyer programs
  • Energy assistance
  • Phone: (541) 548-2380
  • Counties served: Crook, Deschutes, Jefferson

Southern Oregon (Medford, Grants Pass, Klamath Falls)

ACCESS – Area Community Services Employment & Training

  • Emergency rental assistance
  • LIHEAP assistance
  • Employment services
  • Phone: (541) 779-6691
  • Counties served: Jackson, Josephine

Klamath Lake Counties Community Action Services

  • Homeless prevention programs
  • Energy assistance
  • Housing services
  • Phone: (541) 882-3500

Eastern Oregon (Pendleton, La Grande, Ontario)

Blue Mountain Action Council

  • Housing assistance programs
  • Energy assistance
  • Employment services
  • Phone: (541) 276-3231
  • Counties served: Umatilla, Union, Wallowa

Coastal Oregon (Newport, Tillamook, Coos Bay)

Oregon Coast Community Action (ORCCA)

  • Housing assessments (entry point to all programs)
  • Emergency rental assistance
  • Eviction prevention
  • Phone: (541) 435-7080
  • Counties served: Lincoln, Tillamook, Coos, Curry

Community Services Consortium

  • Housing assistance
  • Energy programs
  • Family services
  • Phone: (541) 753-4956
  • Counties served: Benton, Linn

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long do I have to wait for Section 8 in Oregon?

According to current data from Oregon housing authorities, waiting times vary by location:

  • Portland metro: 2-3 years (Home Forward waiting list currently closed)
  • Eugene/Springfield: 1-2 years (limited openings)
  • Salem area: 1-2 years (waiting list periodically closed)
  • Smaller cities: 6 months-2 years depending on demand

Many housing authorities close their waiting lists when they become too long. Check current waiting list status regularly as they can open with little notice.

Can landlords in Oregon refuse Section 8 vouchers?

No! Oregon passed a law in 2019 prohibiting source of income discrimination. Landlords cannot refuse to rent to you because you have a Section 8 voucher. If a landlord discriminates against you, contact the Fair Housing Council of Oregon at (800) 424-3247.

What if I’m working but still can’t afford rent?

Most programs have income limits rather than requiring unemployment. For Section 8, you can earn up to 50% of your area’s median income. For example, in Portland, a single mother with two children can earn up to about $55,800 annually and still qualify. Many assistance recipients work full or part-time jobs.

Can I get help with both rent and utilities?

Yes! You can often combine programs. For example, you might receive Section 8 for rent, LIHEAP for utilities, and emergency assistance from Community Action Agencies – as long as you meet each program’s individual requirements and they’re not paying for the same expenses.

What if I have an eviction on my record?

Section 8 and other programs consider your housing history but many allow explanations for past problems. They often focus more on recent history and your current ability to maintain housing. Some programs specifically prioritize people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

How do I prove my income if I work gig jobs or get paid in cash?

Keep detailed records of all work and income. Get written statements from employers when possible. Community Action Agencies and housing counselors can help you document irregular income properly. Bank deposits, even from cash work, create a paper trail.

What if my Oregon Health Plan application was denied for housing benefits?

You can appeal the decision. The new housing benefits through Oregon Health Plan have strict medical and income requirements. If denied, you still have access to other programs like Community Action emergency assistance and Section 8. Contact your health plan directly to understand why you were denied.

Can I move to Oregon from another state and get housing help?

Section 8 vouchers are portable between states through the “portability” process, but you need to get approved in your current state first. For other assistance, most programs require Oregon residency. Emergency assistance is usually available to new residents in crisis situations.

What happens if my income goes up after I get assistance?

Most programs have annual income reviews. If your income increases above program limits, you’ll typically have a transition period or may qualify for different programs. For Section 8, your rent portion increases gradually. Higher income is actually a goal – it means you’re becoming more self-sufficient.

What if I get denied for assistance?

Every program has an appeals process. You’ll receive written notice explaining denial reasons and how to request a hearing. Don’t miss appeal deadlines – usually 10-14 days. Also apply to multiple programs simultaneously, as denial from one doesn’t affect others.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are rampant: Never pay fees to apply for Section 8, public housing, or emergency assistance. Government programs and legitimate nonprofits are free to apply for.

Fake landlords: Be suspicious of rental listings requiring money before viewing the property, asking for wire transfers, or seeming too good to be true.

“Guaranteed” housing assistance: No legitimate service can guarantee you’ll receive housing assistance or skip waiting lists. These are scams.

Common Challenges in Oregon

Limited emergency funding: With OERAP closed, emergency rental assistance is more limited than during the pandemic. Apply early to multiple agencies.

High housing costs: Oregon’s rental market is expensive, especially in Portland and Bend. Even with assistance, finding affordable units that accept vouchers can be challenging.

Transportation barriers: Rural areas especially face challenges getting to offices for applications and appointments. Ask about mobile services or virtual options.

Childcare during appointments: Many agencies don’t allow children during appointments. Ask about childcare assistance or family-friendly appointment times.

Tips for Success in Oregon

Apply to multiple programs simultaneously: Don’t wait to be denied by one program before applying to others. Oregon has many different agencies and funding sources.

Understand Oregon’s tenant protections: Oregon has strong tenant rights, including limits on rent increases and requirements for cause to evict. Learn your rights through the Community Alliance of Tenants.

Use Oregon’s anti-discrimination laws: If you face discrimination based on your voucher, race, gender, or other protected characteristics, report it immediately to the Fair Housing Council.

Keep organized records: Maintain files of all applications, documents, and correspondence. Oregon agencies often require extensive documentation.

Stay informed about new programs: Oregon frequently adds new assistance programs. Sign up for housing authority newsletters and follow agencies on social media.

Additional Resources

Oregon State Agencies

Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)

Oregon Department of Human Services

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

USDA Rural Development Oregon

Legal Aid

Oregon Law Center

Fair Housing Council of Oregon

Tenant Rights Organizations

Community Alliance of Tenants

Financial Counseling

Oregon Financial Counseling Programs Find certified financial counselors through local Community Action Agencies or credit unions participating in financial counseling programs.

Homebuyer Education HUD-approved homebuyer education courses are available through:

  • NeighborWorks organizations statewide
  • Community Development Corporations
  • Local housing authorities

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Oregon guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Oregon Housing and Community Services, Oregon Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Oregon Housing and Community Services, Oregon Department of Human Services, HUD, USDA, and local Community Action Agency sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, and availability can change frequently. This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always verify current program requirements, application deadlines, and income limits with the relevant agency before applying. Funding for assistance programs is limited and not guaranteed to be available when you apply.

For the most current information, contact programs directly or speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor at (800) 569-4287.

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