The Need

The Portland Women's Foundation invests in community programs that create change:

Because 30% of Oregon households headed by single women live below the poverty level; almost twice the rate for households headed by single men.

Because families comprise 40% of Oregon’s homeless population, the fastest growing segment.

Because 9 of 10 homeless mothers have been victims of violence, often domestic.

Because 46% of homeless women report having stayed in an abusive relationship because they had nowhere else to go.

Because Oregon ranks 34th for the number of seniors living in poverty and 27th overall.

Because a woman can increase her earning potential 27% by completing high school and 55% by earning a college degree.

The Women We Support

A woman suffering domestic violence who wants to protect herself and her children

An Elderly woman who wants to stay in her own home

A pregnant teen in need of shelter or treatment to gain self-sufficiency for herself and her child.

A woman who wants to learn a trade to support her family

A homeless woman with substance abuse issues who wants to shelter with her children

A formerly homeless family as they set up a household

A Latina learning English so she can help support her family

And many others ...

Testimonials

Catholic Charities Housing Transitions Program

"When Housing Transitions first began housing homeless women, two thirds of the women we met were not chronically homeless - “homeless enough” to qualify for these funds. The Portland Women’s Foundation has enabled us to house more than twenty of these women each year, and 92% of them remain housed."

- Margi Dechenne, Program Manager

Adelante Mujeres

“In the past I never read with my children, nor did I pay much attention when they spoke to me. We now read together all the time. I’ve even taught my husband how important it is to listen to our children and talk with them.”

- Margarita Plancarte

Raphael House

"I would never have dreamed this to be the outcome! Safe, secure and my own home. Thank you and god bless you all for your support and kindness. You are all awesome."

"Everybody was awesome and were extremely helpful and supportive to me."

Who & What We Funded in 2012 (PDF)