Food, rent and energy bill assistance program information

SNAP federal funding and changes

There are no plans to end SNAP benefits. SNAP is fully funded and benefits will not be interrupted even during any potential future government shutdown that takes place before September 30, 2026. Read more about SNAP benefits in Oregon here.

Federal changes to requirements for SNAP eligibility took effect October 1, 2025. If your benefit payment is less than your previous benefit payments, it is possible your SNAP eligibility has been affected by federal program changes.

These changes impact three main groups of SNAP participants:

Some households receiving utility assistance
Able-bodied adults ages 18 through 64 without children under the age of 14 (in their SNAP group)
Certain SNAP recipients with current refugee and asylum status

Learn more about the updated federal work requirements for SNAP benefits.

Flyer on SNAP Changes: English (tinyurl.com/SNAPChanges) | Español (tinyurl.com/CambiosSNAP)

Updates from the State of Oregon on federal impact to health and social service programs can be found at:

EBT Safety

Electronic theft of benefits by skimming devices to steal Oregon EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card numbers and personal identification numbers (PIN) is on the rise. While the State may be able to replace stolen Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Refugee Cash benefits, federal funding replacing stolen SNAP benefits ended in December 2024 and cannot be replaced. Take steps to protect your EBT card and benefits.

Facts vs. rumors

Do I need to re-apply to SNAP?

At this time, the SNAP recertification process has not changed in Oregon. If there is a change to your benefits or eligibility status, SNAP recipients will receive communication by mail from the Oregon Department of Human Services.

Call the Oregon Public Benefits Hotline to talk with someone about your situation (800-520-5292, Monday-Thursday).

SNAP recipients seeking information about Public Charge can learn more by visiting the Oregon Law Center Public Charge Fact Sheet.

Finding additional food assistance

To find food assistance in Multnomah County, visit multco.us/food or call 2-1-1.

Need help applying for SNAP? Contact Multnomah County’s SNAP Outreach Team by calling or texting 503-320-6658 or emailing snap@multco.us.

Older adults and people with disabilities can get the best help by contacting the County’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) helpline. Call 503-988-3646 or search the ADRC online database of resources.

Rent and energy bill assistance

Multnomah County offers information on how to access rent assistance, energy bill assistance and resources for basic living needs.

Community members can also connect with 211info, anonymously, to find information about many types of resources.

Call 2-1-1
Text your zip code to 898211
Visit 211info.org
Email: help@211info.org

Due to the federal shutdown in November, Pacific Power and Portland General Electric (PGE) are halting electricity shutoffs through the end of the year for customers who are enrolled in their bill discount programs, as well as customers with medical certificates. These protections end January 1, 2026.

Northwest Natural is also suspending gas shutoffs through the end of the year for customers who are enrolled in their bill discount program. These protections end January 1, 2026.