RESOURCES IN THE COMMUNITY

Find Support Outside of MHCC

As a student at Mount Hood Community College, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to manage school, work, and financial stress.

The good news is, there are plenty of local resources outside of campus that can help you out. Whether it’s getting access to free food, discounted transportation, clothing, or even housing assistance, there are many places nearby that are here to support you.

This guide will help you find the resources you need so you can focus on your studies without the extra stress.

FREE FOOD AND CLOTHING: LOCAL RESOURCES YOU CAN COUNT ON

When your budget is tight, sometimes the most basic necessities such as food and clothing can be a struggle. Luckily, there are several places near MHCC that offer free food and clothing to students in need.

Gresham Food Banks
If you’re having trouble getting enough food, once you search Gresham Food Bank in your Google search you will find excellent resources of many places that will provide free groceries to individuals and families in need. As an MHCC student, you can use these free food resources if you’re experiencing food insecurity. To access this resource, you simply need to bring proof of residence (like a utility bill) and an ID. Many of these food resources offers a variety of food, including fresh produce, canned goods, and more.
Search: Gresham Food Bank to find the nearest place to your area that has free food resources.

Love Inc. of Clackamas County
Love Inc. provides free food, clothing, and even household items to individuals and families in need. The group works with local churches and community organizations to provide this assistance. It also offers programs to help with things like rent and utilities. Although this is not a Gresham resource place, Love Inc. can get you in contact with churches they are partnered with to help as much people as they can. You can use this resource by calling and asking for some of the churches and places they are partnered with, and those nearest to you. If you’re feeling stressed financially call Love Inc. It may help provide the basics to get you through tough times.
Phone: (503) 650-0153

The Salvation Army – Gresham
The Salvation Army is another great resource for students needing food, clothing, or emergency shelter. It also offers programs that can help with rent, utilities, and other critical needs. Its services are designed to help people get back on their feet when they’re struggling financially.
Location: 473 SE 194th Ave., Portland, OR 97233
Phone: (503) 661-8972

FREE OR DISCOUNTED TRANSPORTATION: SAVING ON YOUR COMMUTE

Getting to and from campus can add up costs quickly, especially if you rely on public transportation. However, there are some great resources available for discounted or free transportation.

TriMet College Discounts
TriMet, which operates public transit in Portland and the surrounding area, typically offers a College Discount Pass for students. By showing your MHCC student ID, you can get a discounted fare for buses and MAX light rail (subject to Mt. Hood funds available). This is a great option if you need to get around without breaking your budget.
Where to apply: The Students Basic Needs office at MHCC – in the new Equity and Community Resource Center, Room 1261 – can help students with transportation options.

Gresham Transit Center
The Gresham Transit Center is just a short distance from MHCC and connects to several bus routes reaching through Gresham and the Portland area. If you’re looking for more information about routes, schedules, or how to get a discounted fare, the Gresham Transit Center is the place to check out.
Location: 401 NE Eighth St., Gresham, OR

HOUSING AND EMERGENCY SHELTER: RESOURCES WHEN YOU NEED A SAFE PLACE TO STAY

One of the most stressful things a student can face is housing instability. Fortunately, there are resources in the Gresham area that offer housing support and emergency shelter.

SnowCap Community Charities
SnowCap provides food, clothing, and emergency shelter for people who need it. The group also offers utility and rental assistance if you’re struggling to make ends meet. SnowCap’s mission is to help individuals and families in crisis, and it can help connect you with additional resources if you need long-term assistance.
Location: 17788 SE Pine St., Gresham, OR
Phone: (503) 674-8785
Website: SnowCap Community Charities

Clackamas County Housing Authority
For students facing housing challenges, the Clackamas County Housing Authority can help. It provides affordable housing options for low-income individuals and families, including students. The staff can help guide you through the process of applying for subsidized housing and finding affordable apartments.
Location: 13930 Gain St., Oregon City,
Phone: (503) 655-8591
Website: Clackamas County Housing Authority (www.clackamas.us/housingauthority)

Abigail Court – Gresham
The recently opened Abigail Court in Gresham now offers affordable housing for a limited number of MHCC students, making it easier for them to attend college. Part of the larger College Housing Northwest (CHNW) consortium, this partnership helps students by providing highly discounted rent (there are multiple buildings in east Portland, besides Abigail Court).
Where to start: Read about the program on the CHNW website (chnw.org) and/or see Student Basic Needs staff in the Mt. Hood Equity and Community Resource Center (Room AC1261).

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT AND RESOURCES

Besides assistance with food, clothing, transportation, and housing, there are other resources in the area that can offer additional support to students.

MHCC’s Student Basic Needs Coordinator
MHCC has a Student Basic Needs Coordinator who can help connect you with local resources and programs to support your financial survival. Whether seeking help with food, rent, or finding other community programs, this office can point you in the right direction – be sure to stop and ask for assistance.
Location: MHCC Equity and Community Resource Center (ECRC), Room AC1261
Phone: (503) 491-6422 Website: mhcc.edu/student-resources/student-basic-needs/

HOW TO ACCESS THESE SERVICES

Getting help is easy, if you’re prepared! Most of these services just require you to stop by in person, make a phone call, or fill out an online application. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Proof of enrollment (such as your student ID or class schedule)
• Proof of residence (a utility bill or lease agreement)
• A valid ID (for food banks or clothing resources)

If you’re unsure how to get started, MHCC’s Student Services/Basic Needs staff can help connect you with these resources.

Final Thoughts

Balancing school, work, and finances can feel like a juggling act, but there are plenty of resources out there to help. Take advantage of these resources – don’t let financial struggles keep you from succeeding at Mt. Hood., get the help you need, and focus on your education. Remember, you’re not alone: The community around MHCC is here to support you!

Dina Ibrahim