Eviction Prevention and Energy Bill Assistance

Who to call for rent assistance, homeless services, and affordable housing resources.

Rent Assistance

Emergency Rent Assistance:

If you have received an eviction notice, a written notice to vacate, or are at high risk of losing your housing within the next 21 days, immediate help is available. Supported by the State of Oregon, this program provides:

  • Direct crisis support and landlord negotiation
  • Step-by-step application assistance
  • Connections to additional resources for basic needs
     

Short-Term Rent Assistance (STRA): 

STRA is a unified countywide program that provides limited housing assistance (up to 24 months) to households in Multnomah County that are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. Home Forward administers the program on behalf of Multnomah County, the City of Portland, and the City of Gresham. STRA is designed to respond quickly when homelessness threatens an individual or family. Assistance is available for up to 24 months and can be used for rent and mortgage payments or emergency hotel vouchers. 

How to Access City of Portland Emergency Rent Assistance


County Client Assistance:

For individuals already engaged in County-staffed programs, we offer additional financial resources to ensure continued housing stability. This targeted funding helps cover:

  • Utility payments and short-term rent assistance
  • Housing placement fees and move-in costs


For housing or rent assistance to prevent an eviction, Contact 211info:

  • By Phone: Dial 2-1-1 (toll-free)
  • By Text: Text your zip code to 898211
  • By email: help@211info.org (Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm)
  • Online: 211info.org

     

     

Energy Assistance in Multnomah County

Multnomah County's Energy Assistance Program provides vital financial relief to supplement home heating and electric costs for eligible low-income households to keep homes powered and families stable. 

We partner with six local nonprofits, including culturally specific organizations, to administer energy assistance on behalf of Multnomah County. Program services are delivered on a first-come, first-served basis and include: 

  • Heating & Electric Supplements: Direct payments to income-eligible households to supplement high home heating and electric costs.
  • Personalized Case Management: Tailored, one-on-one support to help families navigate financial challenges and build stability.
  • Long-Term Education: Practical strategies that empower residents to permanently lower their future energy costs.
     

To apply for energy bill assistance or learn more, contact 211info:

  • By Phone: Dial 2-1-1 (toll-free)
  • By Text: Text your zip code to 898211
  • By email: help@211info.org (Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm)
  • Online: 211info.org
Last reviewed June 30, 2026