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Washington County News and Resources Community Newsletter

July 14, 2026

On hot summer days, staying safe means keeping an eye on both ourselves and the animals who depend on us. Remember to stay hydrated, take breaks in the shade and never leave children or pets in parked cars, even for a few minutes.

This month, Animal Services and Emergency Management teamed up to share simple ways to plan ahead and care for your pets during an emergency: 

• Help your pet get comfortable with their carrier so you can evacuate quickly if needed. In emergency situations, pets may need to stay in carriers longer than usual.
• Refresh your pet's emergency kit by checking their water and food supplies and include a favorite toy to help reduce stress. 
• Take a current photo of your pet in case you get separated during a disaster. 
• Sometimes emergencies happen when we aren’t with our pets. Have a backup plan and make sure someone you trust can access and care for your animals if you can't.

Economic Resilience in Action

In their newly released Economic Recovery and Resiliency Report, the County’s Economic Development Program provides a comprehensive overview of countywide recovery and resilience efforts from 2021 to 2026.

Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the report outlines how federal investments supported small businesses, strengthened workforce pathways and built community capacity during the post-pandemic recovery.

We encourage partners, community members, and stakeholders to explore the full report and learn more about the collaborative efforts that contributed to Washington County’s economic resilience during this time period.

Walk, bike, roll, or simply wander over to the Active Transportation Plan Online Open House 

Do you rely on sidewalks, bike lanes, or trails? Do you use mobility devices or transit connections to get around? Maybe you are curious about active transportation options. We want to hear from you! Tell us how Washington County can encourage you to walk, bike or roll more often, including the places you’d like to visit and where you’d love to see improvements to make it easier to travel without a car. 

Visit the Active Transportation Plan Online Open House from June 26 to July 30 to share your experiences. Your input will help shape future projects that make traveling safer, healthier, more sustainable, and more connected for everyone.  

Big Fair Fun at the 2026 Washington County Fair

The Washington County Fair is back this summer, bringing our community together for ten days of family-friendly fun. From local exhibits and live entertainment to carnival rides, food vendors and agricultural showcases, there's something for everyone. Whether it's your first visit or an annual tradition, the fair is a great way to celebrate our community together.

Admission to the County Fair is free. Parking cost $10 per-standard vehicle and $15 for oversized vehicles. Attendees are encouraged to take the MAX light rail to the fair to avoid traffic and parking constraints.

When: Friday, July 24 to Sunday, August 2; weekdays from 5 p.m. to midnight and weekends from 10 a.m. to midnight.

Where: Westside Commons, 801 NE 34th Ave, Hillsboro, OR 97124.

Save the Date: 20th Annual Latino Community Festival

Join us for a day full of joy and fun as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Unitus Community Credit Union Latino Community Festival. Hosted by the City of Hillsboro, this event will feature live entertainment, art, local businesses and community. Don't miss this special anniversary celebration and the opportunity to celebrate the rich culture and diversity of the Latino community.

When: Sunday, August 9, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: Hillsboro Ballpark, 4460 NE Century Blvd, Hillsboro, OR 97124.

Washington County Economic Development Resource Webpage

The Economic Development Resource Webpage provides Washington County small businesses with access to a variety of resources through the new small business resource directory and includes various opportunities ranging from workforce development to government contracting.



• Small Business Resource Directory: Resources range from technical assistance services, help with access to business capital, networking opportunities and legal services. They include the local area and culturally specific chambers of commerce, community-based organizations and trade associations. 
• Workforce Development Resources: Resources for job seekers, employers and community partners navigating their workforce development needs.
• City Resources and Government Contracting: Resources for those who are interested in or currently contracting with local, regional, or federal government agencies.

Resources for Immigrant and Refugee Communities

The resources provided below are for information only, are not exhaustive, and do not constitute legal advice. For specific information about your rights and legal options, consult an attorney.

• Know your rights in the United States - Information available in multiple languages
• Oregon Law Help - Oregon legal aid directory can be used to search for free and low-cost attorneys in Oregon as well as other resources (law libraries, referrals, government help).
• CLEAR Clinic and Legal Resource Center provides free legal services to all community members.
• If you are at risk of deportation, you may be eligible for free legal representation through Equity Corps of Oregon.
• SOAR Immigration Legal Services provides culturally competent, immigration-related legal representation and education to refugees and immigrants with limited income in Oregon.
• Immigration Advocates Network - Oregon Immigration Legal Services Directory
• The Oregon State Bar offers a free attorney referral service for those who can afford to hire a lawyer.
• ODOJ's Civil Rights Unit Sanctuary Promise Toolkit is designed to empower you with the knowledge and resources about Oregon's Sanctuary Promise Laws. You can always contact Oregon's statewide Sanctuary Promise Hotline to talk about your options.

Oregon Food Bank - Food Finder

The Oregon Food Bank's Food Finder map makes it easy for everyone to access free, nutritious food. This map lists different food pantries and meal sites that provide free groceries and fresh produce. These options are community based and accessible to ALL. To learn more about free food options in your community visit the Food Finder map to locate free groceries, meals or places that double your SNAP EBT benefits*.

*The Double Up Food Bucks program doubles each dollar you spend when you use SNAP EBT at participating grocery stores, CSA's and farmers markets. Learn more about SNAP Double Up Food Bucks here.

Oregon Health Plan (OHP) Climate Supports

As of March 1st, 2024, eligible OHP members will be able to apply for climate related resources under the benefit health-related social needs (HRSN). Eligible members will be able to receive devices such as but not limited to air conditioners, heaters and portable power supplies. For more information access the fact sheet created by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA).

Weatherization

Ensure your home is staying warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Weatherizing your home involves finding areas where warm or cool air may be lost, like windows, doors, and vents, and improving them. The following organizations provide free or low-cost weatherization assistance to low-income households.



• Community Action
• The Low-Income Weatherization Program provides weatherization and energy conservation services at no cost to households at or below 200% of federal poverty income level.
• Through Energy Trust landlords can receive up to $250,000 per year in cash incentives for increasing energy efficiency and weatherization at multifamily properties they manage.

Find other cooling programs at www.staycoolwashingtoncounty.com.

Utilities Assistance

Community Action is available to assist community members experiencing financial difficulty with utility bills. For more information, please visit Community Action's utility assistance page. If repair is needed to improve energy efficiency, weatherization assistance is available, visit this page, or call 503-906-6550.

City of Hillsboro utility bill assistance

Residents facing financial hardship can stay connected to City utility services through the City of Hillsboro’s Utility Bill Assistance program, which offers flexible payment plans and bill relief support. View the flyer in English and Spanish.

Portland General Electric

Portland General Electric encourages all customers to call and ask for information on payment plans, fee waivers, and other assistance. The phone numbers are 503-228-6322 or toll-free at 800-542-8818. The Income-Qualified Bill Discount program is available for qualifying households. Check here to see if you qualify.

NW Natural

NW Natural's Oregon bill discount program is now available for income-qualified customers. Apply online or download the application and mail it in.

Tualatin Valley Water District Water bill assistance

Tualatin Valley Water District offers water bill assistance programs – including long-term payment plans, a 20% discount on drinking water charges for 24 months, and one-time emergency credits – to help customers experiencing financial hardship. Visit TVWD.org/Help to learn more.

Reduced Rate Garbage & Recycling Program

If you live in Washington County and your income is at or below 185% of the federal poverty level - $51,338 per year for a household of four - you can have your garbage and recycling bills cut by 75%. Washington County Solid Waste & Recycling is partnering with Community Action, to make the application process easy. You can apply online, in person, or request an application by mail. To learn more and access the application, visit our website.

Domestic Violence Resources

The Washington County Domestic Violence Crisis number is: 503-469-8620 or toll free 1-800-469-8600. Find a list of the most commonly requested resources here. Additional resources including mental health, food and housing here.

The following pages provide information and resources on abuse and violence in romantic relationships: 

• The Domestic Violence Resource Center (DVRC): A local non-profit agency that offers services, including crisis intervention and shelter, to domestic violence survivors and their children.
• Family Justice Center of Washington County: A non-profit offering wrap-around services to survivors of family violence, all in one place.
• National Coalition Against Domestic Violence: A national organization dedicated to ending domestic violence.
• NCADV Domestic Violence Information: General information on Domestic Violence.

Mental health and substance use services in Washington County



Washington County is available to help. Contact the Behavioral Support Team at 503-846-4528. If you are in a crisis, call the Crisis Line at 503-291-9111.

Find regional resources and listings for mental health and substance use services, plus help on how to quit gambling or tobacco use here.

Homelessness Resources

For clients who are houseless and looking for temporary shelter in their community, this site lists all available shelters in the area: www.shelterlistings.org. If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness contact Community Connect at 503-640-3263 or email communityconnect@caowash.org.

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