One of the most difficult parts of my job is the fact that so many of my clients are in dire financial circumstances. Many have no health insurance, or cannot afford co-pays for doctors’ visits and prescriptions. Others may be living in precarious or harmful situations because they cannot afford to go anywhere else, or may be on the verge of losing housing or electricity. The wait for Social Security benefits is very long, and Social Security will only consider expediting a claim in a very few specific circumstances. It’s hard to know how to survive in the meantime.
Unfortunately, social services across the country are already overextended, and the system can be very difficult to navigate. While attorneys cannot act as case managers (we don’t have the time or the experience), Oregon residents are lucky enough to have a few excellent resources to assist them in finding support while they wait for Social Security benefits.
2-1-1 (www.211info.org in Oregon, www.211.org to find your state’s program)
2-1-1 is a terrific nonprofit organization that offers free, confidential referrals and information. Dial 2-1-1 to speak with a representative who can help you figure out the best programs to help with food, housing, health care, and counseling.
Rose City Resource (www.rosecityresource.org)
Published by Street Roots, the Rose City Resource is “the most comprehensive, updated list of services for people experiencing homelessness and poverty in Multnomah, Washington, and Clackamas counties”. Available in printed form at Street Roots (211 NW Davis St.), our office, and many other offices, or online at rosecityresource.org, it’s an excellent in-depth guide to all the services available in the tri-county area.