Standing Together in Uncertain Times: How to Find Food Support if SNAP Benefits Are Interrupted
We know that when systems falter, communities rise. At United Way of the Columbia-Willamette, we believe in the power of neighbors helping neighbors. We've seen that power in full effect throughout Clark, Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties as SNAP benefits have been threatened. We’re in a precarious moment - but we’re not powerless. What’s already happening in neighborhoods across our region shows how much we as Oregonians care about each other. Local businesses turning their back counters into pantries, neighbors dropping off extra cans, organizations activating emergency support - these acts matter.
Below, you’ll find practical resources and ideas to help families access food support during this uncertain moment. Feel free to share this widely—having a map of support can help ease stress when every day feels unpredictable.
Where to go for help: community food resources
Oregon Department of Human Services – Food Resources page
- A directory of local food programs and how to contact them
- Use this as a starting point to find pantries, hot meal sites, mobile food programs.
Asian American Town – Food Resources
- Culturally specific food access, directories tailored to Asian American and Pacific Islander communities
- Helpful for folks seeking culturally relevant foods or language support
- A searchable tool to locate food pantries, meal programs, food distribution events, etc.
- This is great for pinpointing food options near your ZIP code
KGW Guide: How to Get Food Assistance & Meals
- A public-facing guide walking through eligibility, meal sites, how to use local resources
- Useful for folks less familiar with the system
Cascadia Health – Community Food Resources (Multnomah County)
- A regularly published list of food programs in Portland and nearby neighborhoods
- For folks in Portland in particular, this is a helpful up-to-date list
Local businesses offering free meals
- Some cafes, restaurants, and coffee shops are offering “SNAP meals” or sack lunches
- KATU has assembled a list of these community acts of generosity
United Way of the Columbia-Willamette is committed to helping communicate these efforts, as well as continuing our own programs that support individuals facing housing instability, promote quality, affordable preschool, encourage volunteerism, and more.
Let’s keep showing up. Hunger doesn’t wait - and neither should compassion.
United Way of the Columbia-Willamette is a convenor of hundreds of necessary resources across the four counties we serve. This list is far from exhaustive but if you're looking for help, it's a great place to start! Our partner, 211Info, is another essential, all-around resource, but if you're looking for specific help in our four impact areas (Housing Stability, Early Education, Disaster and Crisis Resilience and Volunteerism) click on the boxes below to learn more: