Housing Assistance in Oregon
Paying for housing, finding housing, and dealing with housing problems is stressful. But, there are programs and places that can help you with these challenges.
- Emergency rent assistance
- Dealing with problems with your landlord or rental
- Long-term housing assistance
Emergency rent assistance
- Call or text 211 for assistance. 211info is a free service that provides information and referrals to local social service and support organizations across Oregon and Southwest Washington. Learn more about 211 here.
- Contact your local community action agency (CAA). CAAs provide services and support to Oregon families struggling to afford necessities like utilities, housing, transportation, and employment expenses. Learn more about CAAs here.
Dealing with problems with your landlord or rental
- Tenants' Rights Hotlines: If you have housing problems and need quick information about your rights, call the Community Alliance of Tenants' Hotline or the Springfield-Eugene Tenant Association Hotline. These hotlines are staffed by non-lawyers who can help you understand your rights as an Oregon renter and provide helpful resources.
- Free legal services. If you're facing eviction or at risk of losing your housing, you may be able to get a free lawyer. You can use our Legal Directory to search for free and reduced-cost lawyers.
Long-term housing assistance
- Subsidized housing: Subsidized housing programs help low-income families afford rent by paying a percentage of a family's total rent. Visit the Oregon Housing and Community Services website to learn more about subsidized housing options.
- Affordable housing units: These apartment buildings are usually built with help from the government, and as a condition of getting that help, the building owner has to keep the rents lower than the average for the area. You typically apply for affordable housing at the building itself. You can look for affordable housing units in your areas using this master list of affordable housing by Oregon County or talk to a Housing Counselor for personalized information and guidance.
- Utility bill assistance: The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income families pay for their heating and cooling costs, making it easier for them to keep their homes comfortable. The Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP) provides financial support to help residents manage their energy bills and access other resources for energy savings. Learn more about these programs on this government site.
- Health Related Social Needs Benefits (HSRN): If you are a member of Oregon Health Plan or Health Share of Oregon, you may qualify for extra help with housing, food, or climate-related needs (like getting an air conditioner to help you stay cool during a heat wave). This program is for people who have complicated health needs, are worried about becoming homeless, or are going through a significant life transition. Learn more about the HSRN program on the Health Share of Oregon website.