|
Advocating for Food Security:
Food Support for Oregonians with Disabilities During the Shutdown
With federal programs like SNAP and WIC disrupted by the government shutdown, many Oregonians—especially those with disabilities—are facing urgent food insecurity. These systems are vital, and their absence is deeply felt.
In this moment, community is our strength. Across Oregon, food pantries, mutual aid groups, and volunteers are stepping up to ensure no one goes hungry. If you’re in need, support is out there. If you’re able, please consider donating, volunteering, or checking in on neighbors.
Below is a list of food resources across the state, organized by region. Many offer accessible options, delivery, and culturally specific support.
You deserve nourishment, dignity, and care. We’re in this together.
LINK TO FIND FOOD ALL OVER THE CITY IS HERE!
| |
November 2025 News & Advocacy for Independent Living
This month’s news focuses on critical resource stability in Oregon and ongoing advocacy efforts for our community.
Oregon Statewide Crisis: SNAP Benefits Halts Impacting Disabled Community
A major concern across Oregon is the halt of federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for November due to the recent federal shutdown. This action affects over 757,000 Oregonians, including an estimated 130,000 older adults and people with disabilities statewide.
The Governor’s declaration of a state of emergency and mobilization of county resources aims to bridge this sudden food security gap.
Action & Resource Contact Information:
Statewide Resource: You can call 2-1-1 or visit 211info.org for information on local food banks and community food distribution sites throughout Oregon.
WEBSITE: ADRC - Aging/Disability Resource Center general search link
| |
OREGON ADVOCACY around the State: Updates
1. Lawsuit Settlement Protects Homeless Residents with Disabilities in Grants Pass
Disability Rights Oregon (DRO) has secured a significant settlement with the City of Grants Pass, setting an important precedent for cities across the state. This agreement improves conditions and access to necessary facilities for homeless residents with disabilities, ensuring the city complies with federal requirements for reasonable accommodations. This win affirms the civil rights of vulnerable populations beyond the Portland metro area.
2. Mental Health and Institutionalization Lawsuits Continue
DRO continues to litigate against the State of Oregon for failing to provide timely, court-ordered mental health restoration treatment to people languishing in jails. This ongoing advocacy fight highlights the urgent need to expand accessible, community-based behavioral health services statewide as alternatives to incarceration and institutionalization.
3. Self-Advocate Listening Sessions for IDD Services
Disability Rights Oregon is actively seeking input from self-advocates across Oregon about what is and isn't working well in their lives, particularly concerning Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) services. Your feedback will shape DRO's advocacy priorities for the coming year.
Details & Full Schedule: DRO Listening Sessions for Self-Advocates CALL FOR MORE INFO: (503) 243-2081
or email: welcome@droregon.org
| |
Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week (National Event)
| |  |
|
A program of U.S. Hunger, offering discreet food delivery
- Join Waitlist / Apply: fullcart.org
- Customer Support: ✉️ support@fullcart.org 📱 Text “HELP” to 888-504-3457
- Help Center: FullCart Support
SNAP supports over 4 million people with disabilities nationwide. Even short disruptions can have lasting impacts. In Oregon, community partners and mutual aid groups are stepping up—but systemic support remains essential.
Food is not optional. It is dignity, health, and survival.
With gratitude to The Arc for their leadership in protecting food access for people with disabilities.
| |
SUPPORT/PEER GROUPS, LOCALLY:
NAMI Connection Peer Support Group --- CLICK on VIRTUAL PEER-LED SUPPORT GROUP
Join in a welcoming, judgement-free space for adults of all ages.
1st + 3rd, SUNDAYS 3pm- 4:30p
ONLINE via ZOOM
email for questions: info@namimultnomah.org or
call: 503-228-5692
No diagnosis is required to participate.
| |
Finding Connection in Harder Times: WHY Join a Support Group?
When life feels overwhelming, finding a safe space to talk can be a lifeline. Support groups offer more than just conversation—they create community. Whether you're navigating mental health challenges, caregiving stress, or systemic barriers, peer-led groups provide a judgment-free zone where your story is heard and honored. In these circles, you're not alone. You're part of something resilient, compassionate, and real. Connection is healing—and it starts with showing up.
|
Did you know that NAMI support groups are free, confidential spaces for adults to share experiences and receive peer support. Groups are led by individuals who have personally benefited from attending. NAMI serves two main populations:
- Adults living with mental health conditions
- Adults with loved ones experiencing mental health symptoms
TO REGISTER FOR GROUPS: LINK!
Signature Support Groups
- NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group For adults living with mental health conditions
- NAMI Family Support Group For adults supporting loved ones with mental health challenges
- Online Support Groups (Ages 18+, Oregon Residents)
For People with Mental Health Conditions:
- Sundays: 6:00–7:30 PM
- Mondays: 5:30–7:00 PM & 7:00–9:00 PM
- Tuesdays: 7:00–8:30 PM
- Wednesdays: 2:00–3:30 PM & 5:30–7:00 PM
- NEW – En Español: Miércoles: 7:00–8:30 PM
LGBTQ+ Peer Support Groups:
- Mondays & Thursdays: 7:00–8:30 PM
- 1st & 3rd Tuesdays: 6:00–7:30 PM
For Friends and Family:
- 1st & 3rd Mondays: 6:30–8:00 PM
- 1st & 3rd Tuesdays: 7:00–8:30 PM
- 2nd Tuesday: 7:30–9:00 PM
- 1st & 3rd Wednesdays: 6:00–7:30 PM
- Last Thursday: 5:15–6:45 PM
- 3rd Saturdays: 9:00–10:30 AM & 10:00–11:30 AM
| ILR partners with Veteran Directed Care Program |
Independent Living Resources has teamed up with Veterans!
Veteran Directed Care: Supporting Independence at Home
Veteran Directed Care (VDC) empowers Veterans who require nursing home-level care to remain safely in their own homes by self-directing the support they need.
Through this VA-funded program, eligible Veterans receive a flexible monthly budget to manage skilled and non-skilled services—choosing their own caregivers, including family members, and tailoring care to their personal goals.
Access/Eligibility to VDC begins with a consult from a veteran's Primary Care Provider.
ILR’s Role in Oregon
Independent Living Resources (ILR) proudly partners with the VA to deliver VDC across Oregon. ILR’s VDC Coordinator, Sue Muth, will work closely to:
- Support vets in developing their personalized care plans/goals
- Support each veteran, as they hire and manage their own in-home paid formal/informal caregivers
- Support vets in maintaining their independence and dignity
This partnership ensures Veterans receive flexible, person-centered support rooted in the Independent Living philosophy. At ILR, we honor the autonomy and resilience of every Veteran we serve.
| |
|
Housing Resources as of Fall 2025
Oregon Rehousing Initiative (Statewide)
Up to 24 months of rental assistance + wraparound services 🔗 oregon.gov/ohcs/homelessness-response. Services continue through June 2027
✅ Clackamas Village (Opened 2025)
Transitional shelter with on-site services 🔗 clackamas.us/hcdd/clackamas-village 503-655-8591
✅ Portland Family Shelter Expansion (Opening Nov 2025)
Three new overnight-only shelters for families 🔗 opb.org article 503-823-4000 (City of Portland Housing)
✅ WeShine North Portland Village (Opened SPRING 2025)
10 pods for adults 45+ with disabilities or marginalized identities 🔗 weshinepdx.org 503-389-6196
For referrals or support navigating these programs, contact ILR at 503-232-7411.
| |
|
