Clackamas County Catholic Charities assistance programs.
Numerous programs are either offered directly by Catholic Charities or the agency may refer individuals to resources in the greater Clackamas County region. A focus of El Programa Hispano Católico (the local Catholic Charities) is on meeting basic needs, such as food, for people who would otherwise be at risk without help, including seniors and children. Some examples of the social services offered are below, however call them for referrals and information on other programs.
Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services, or CCILS, provides high quality immigration legal services and aid to low income immigrants and refugees. The organization will engage in public education, job training programs and community outreach in order to promote justice for all newcomers. The agency is always looking to improve conditions for their full participation in American society.
Emergency Services, including for immigrants and Spanish speakers, are offered. Some fall under the name of the El Programa Hispano. Resources are offered for low income families in the greater Clackamas region.
Since Catholic Charities focuses on self-sufficiency, skill building classes and workshops are widely available. This can include basic computers skills, Citizenship, Driver’s Education, English as Second Language/ESL classes, workshops for job seekers and even financial literacy or job-related training.
Programs for the elderly and senior citizens are offered. This can include connecting the elderly with social services or government aid, including federal and state of Oregon resources. Other services can include a free weekly lunch to help them socialize and to also develop connections with other regional community providers.
Another focus in Oregon is on so called anti-poverty services. Clients can get referral to social services and information. Or try to register for crisis and short-term intervention. It may even include limited amounts of financial aid for certain bills such as rent or food. Often combined with this anti-poverty program is Case Management. This offers additional referrals and the possibility of assistance to qualified lower income clients who need housing, utilities and other basic needs met.
The organization will also assist, as best they can, with employment issues. This can include a weekly job seekers list and is usually offered as part of the El Programa Hispano program. While they try to get the list as accurate as possible, there are no promises. It is an effort to list potential employers and job opportunities in the region.
Advocacy is always offered. Social workers will work for you, on your behalf, and provide guidance, support, and free information.
Renters can receive tenant education. Staff from the charity offer a variety of on-site educational and social activities, including nutrition, housekeeping, vocational training, computer literacy, and budgeting.
Low income housing is offered. Clients who are found to be eligible will also receive assistance in obtaining benefits and government entitlements. Case workers will help with making referrals for services such as furniture, free food, transportation, and low cost legal and tax preparation. Residents may also access immigration policies, medical and dental care in Clackamas, counseling services, and maybe even limited amounts of emergency financial assistance and follow-up support.
Food and nutritional support is a program offered. They will try to encourage healthier eating habits among residents. Or learn about local on-site community gardens and healthy cooking classes. Programs may provide vegetables, breads, fruits, baby formula and herbs to those who qualify.
A number of non-profits and organizations partner with Catholic Charities. Examples of who they work with includes the Oregon Food Bank, Northwest Housing Alternatives, Clackamas County Community Health, Empowerment Initiatives, and Community Solutions for Clackamas County.
Location and how to get applications from Catholic Charities
Dial (503) 669-8350 to learn more or apply.
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