Services
Multnomah Stability Initiative (MSI)
Assisting homeless and low-income households to leave poverty and become self sufficient. Includes: energy assistance, rent assistance, housing, housing, skill-building, early childhood programs.
Early Childhood and Kindergarten Readiness
For families of children (birth through age 5) to promote positive parenting, health, child development and school readiness.
Sexual and Gender Minority Youth Services
Community services specifically for sexual minority youth and their families so that youth remain in or return to school.
SUN Youth Advocacy (SYA)
SUN Youth Advocacy Program (SYA) fosters youth development and academic achievement.
Related sites
Much of what makes up student success happens outside the classroom. A student who is healthy and lives in a stable home is much more likely to succeed when the school bell rings. SUN stands for Schools Uniting Neighborhoods and it is our goal to support school-aged children and families to make sure that the future is in good hands.
Many people know about SUN Community Schools, neighborhood hubs for services that help students and families. These services are not provided directly by Multnomah County and are contracted to be delivered by community based organizations. If you're interested in what services are available near you, contact your local SUN community school coordinator.
The broader SUN Services system also funds and provides services in homes, community-based organizations and libraries. Services include:
- Free meal sites
- Helping families get ready for kindergarten
- Case management to help families live in a stable home
- Culturally specific services and services for LGBTQ students
- Energy assistance
- Educational support and skill development or youth and adults
- Youth and family advocates
- Connection to health and mental health services, and more
This nationally recognized system of care works to ensure families are healthy so they can champion and support their children. The SUN Service System collaboration is managed by Multnomah County.
Who can participate
Most services through the SUN Service System are open to everyone. Some basic needs services (such as rent and energy assistance) have income eligibility requirements.
Where to access SUN services
Accessing SUN services can be different depending on the location. You can find and access local SUN Community Schools and services like food and energy assistance.
Accessing Food at School Sites and Beyond
Many SUN Community Schools in Multnomah County offer free grocery distributions in partnership with Oregon Food Bank. Learn more about SUN food sites.
Looking for free school meals during the day, after school or during the summer? Please call your local school district or check their website for locations, days and hours of meal service.
Find other Food Resources like SNAP and WIC on our food assistance website.