Trump’s Executive Order Freeze Stands to Impact Portland’s Most Vulnerable – Here’s How You Can Help

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What Happened?

Donald Trump issued an executive order on January 28, 2025 freezing all federal grants and loans. In Oregon, federal funds offer support to crucial programs, meaning the potential fallout is alarming for everyone but especially the most vulnerable residents. Already federal portals used for funding healthcare, education, and social services have become inaccessible, as noted by Governor Tina Kotek. This makes it difficult for Oregon to claim funds needed for the essential services. In a statement by Attorney General Dan Rayfield, he announced that Oregon would join 22 other states and the District of Colombia in a lawsuit. But lawsuits take time, which is something that many vulnerable Oregonians don’t have.

What Does This Mean for Portland?

Portland relies on federal funds to maintain programs that assist children, families with low-income, and people experiencing homelessness.

Head Start, the federally funded early childhood education program, stands to face funding shortages which could lead to mass layoffs and reduced services for children in need.

The Oregon Health Plan (OHP) depends on federal reimbursements. It’s been reported that Medicaid (under which OHP falls) would be unaffected – for now. If the freeze remains in effect, that could be detrimental to people who rely on OHP for medications and life-saving treatment.

Homelessness services, including shelters and housing programs, rely on federal support. Portland is documented to have one of the highest homelessness rates in the United States, and without reliable federal support, it could make an already dire situation far worse.

What Can We Do Right Now?

Oregon state representatives are already taking action, but we can’t rely solely on lawsuits to solve this crisis. Here is action that you can take today:

·         Call your representatives. Demand that they oppose the executive order and push for emergency measures to protect essential services. Here’s where you can find your representatives.

·         Support local organisations. Portland has an abundance of nonprofits that are already stepping up. Donate to organisations like Transition Projects, Oregon Food Bank, Sisters of the Road, and Street Roots.

·         Stay informed. Sign up for updates, share information, and keep pressure on your local government to act. Read more about the lawsuit and what’s at stake here.

The impact of this order is real and the people who will suffer the most don’t have time to wait.

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