Guide 9 of 14

Help for Veterans in Oregon: Housing, Health and Benefits

Help for veterans in Oregon: the VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans, Portland VA homeless services, county Veteran Service Officers, the Veterans Crisis Line and job help.

Need help tonight?

911Danger or emergency right now 988Call or text. Crisis or thinking about suicide. 24 hours 211Shelter, food, bills, anything else 1 800 799 7233Someone hurting you at home. Text START to 88788

Start here

Hi friend. Thank you for your service. If you are homeless or about to lose your home, there are people whose job is to help veterans.

Homeless Veterans Call Center Veterans Crisis Line (press 1)Portland VA homeless services

Quick answers

Who do I call if I'm a homeless veteran?

Call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877 424 3838. It is free, private and open 24 hours. Live chat is also available. They can connect you to VA housing and support programs.

Official page: department.va.gov/homeless

What housing programs does the VA have?

The VA lists HUD VASH for permanent supportive housing, Supportive Services for Veteran Families for prevention and rapid rehousing, and Grant and Per Diem for transitional housing. It also lists the Health Care for Homeless Veterans program and Legal Services for Veterans.

Official page: department.va.gov/homeless

Is there a local number in Portland?

Yes. The Portland VA lists Homeless Veterans Services at 503 808 1256. The Portland VA Medical Center main line is 503 220 8262, or toll free 800 949 1004. Call 711 for TTY.

Official page: va.gov/portland-health-care/contact-us

Who can help me with VA benefits and claims?

Call the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs at 800 692 9666 or 503 373 2085, or find your county Veteran Service Office. In Multnomah County, call 503 988 8387. Marion County handles its own claims at 971 707 4400.

Official page: oregon.gov/odva/Services/Pages/Counties/Marion.aspx

What if I'm in crisis?

Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat at veteranscrisisline.net. Oregon's Military Helpline at 888 457 4838 is also open to military connected people.

Official page: 988lifeline.org/get-help

Your next steps

Tick each one as you go. Your ticks stay on this phone only.

0 of 4

Call 877 424 3838 if you are homeless or at risk.
Ask about HUD VASH, SSVF and Grant and Per Diem housing.
Contact your county Veteran Service Office about benefits.
Tell WorkSource staff you served, to get priority.

All done. You are ready, friend.

Bunkly tip: bring your DD 214 or any discharge papers when you meet a VA or county veteran office, if you have them. Ask them how to get a copy if you don't.