News and Stories

Feb 1, 2022, 08:00 AM

Winter comes every year. In Oregon, it can bring some severe weather that creates chaos for everyone. Freezing temperatures, snowstorms and even flooding are all common examples. For members of CareOregon, we know this can create additional hardships to ones you may already be experiencing.  If you’re worried about severe winter weather impacting your life, we want to help you prepare so you don’t get left out in the cold.   
We can help you with some immediate options and information, as well as discuss resources for the future.  

Severe winter weather resources we can help with immediately 

I want to find a warming center or homeless shelter near me open now 

Here are some web resources for winter shelters and shelters for the homeless in your county:

• 211 shelter resources by county: https://www.211info.org/em-shelters 
• Clackamas County: https://www.clackamas.us/relief#overnightcenters 
• Multnomah County: https://www.multco.us/care-when-its-cold/severe-weather-and-homelessness
• Washington County: https://www.co.washington.or.us/Housing/EndHomelessness/homeless_resources.cfm

I need help getting to a friend/family member’s house or warming shelter. I need help with transportation 

Trimet 

If you need a ride during severe winter weather, public transportation (bus, Max train, streetcar) is a good option. Trimet winter weather information can be found on their website at https://trimet.org/alerts/winterweather.htm  

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Services:  

Our transportation partner, Ride To Care, may be able to help you get to a warm location or to your health appointment. In Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties, call 855-321-4899. When you call, they’ll ask questions about you and the trip you’re asking for. Then determine what service is right for you. 

PLEASE NOTE: If the continuous snow and ice cause road conditions that are too hazardous, they may only be accepting trip requests for life sustaining appointments. Please also remember to check with your health care provider to confirm that your appointment hasn’t been cancelled.  

I have a medical emergency and need help fast 

If you have a life-threatening emergency, please hang up and dial 911. 

If you need urgent medical attention, please contact your primary care clinic.  

Severe winter weather resources we can help with in the future 

I need a space heater or help paying my electric bills 

We may be able to help you purchase a space heater or pay your electric bills, depending on your situation. However, this option can take some time and isn’t an immediate solution to get you warm. You will need to call our Customer Service at 800-224-4840 (TTY: 711) and ask for our Outreach Team, who will talk with you about options for future needs like these. If you don’t reach someone directly, please leave a voicemail and they will get back to you as soon as possible.