Health

Washington County has many providers who receive funding to provide substance use treatment and supports for free or low cost. The providers work together as a network to connect people to the right support for their needs. They can provide treatment and resources to any individual who resides within Washington County. You can contact a provider directly by choosing the one that best fits your current needs from the Washington County Behavioral Health Resource Network (BHRN) list below. 

Use this map to find treatment providers and resources near you!

To find a provider near you, click on the map of your choice below. Use the map's filters to show the location of substance use disorder treatment providers, related services, and resources in Washington County. 

Map in English  Map in Spanish

Birth records must be ordered by an authorized individual (see below). They are not automatically sent out after a baby's birth. You may apply to Washington County for a birth record up to the last day of the fifth month from date of birth. For example, if your baby was born on January 10, you can apply for a birth record from Washington County until July 9 during regular business hours.

Use the order form below to request a birth record. Fill it out completely to avoid a delay. Each certified birth record is $25. If you apply in person, we can take cash, check, money order or credit card. If you apply by mail, we can take a check or money order made payable to Vital Records. Do not mail cash or include a credit card number when ordering by mail. You must mail or bring proof of identity. Visit the State's website for a complete list of what identification is accepted.

Who can order a birth certificate

• The mother of the baby if the mother is named on the certificate. If the baby has been given up for adoption, the biological mother cannot order a birth certificate.
• The father of the baby named on the certificate. If the father is not legally married to the mother of the baby and a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity was not established, the biological father cannot order a birth certificate.
• The maternal grandparents, if the mother is listed on the certificate (bring a copy).
• The paternal grandparents, if the father is listed on the certificate (bring a copy).
• The legal representative of the baby. Legal representatives include attorneys, physicians, CPAs and other authorized agents acting on behalf of the baby or their immediate family. If you are an attorney, you must state whom you represent. If you do not legally represent the baby, include how your client is related to the person on the record. If you are a legal guardian or have power of attorney, you must enclose a copy of the legal document. If you are not eligible to order the record, include a permission note with the notarized signature of an eligible person.

Orders from people who are legal guardians will be filled after we receive a copy of the legal guardianship document, custody document, notarized power of attorney, etc. If a child is a ward of the state, the foster parent should have a permission note on letterhead from the children’s agency. Copies of all legal documents should be attached to the order form.

Six months or longer from the date of birth

Certified copies for individuals who were born in Oregon six months ago or longer must be obtained from the Oregon Health Authority.

The CATT Connection Newsletter

Subscribe to receive future newsletters as soon as they are published!

April 2024 - Logo debut, buildings are officially named, health care visioning, a time for celebration, and how a robin family almost halted the first day of construction.

February 2024 - Big announcement: the CATT is fully funded! Tough questions from state leaders get answered. Meet Jenna, our newest CATT Champion.

December 2023 - Wow! We accomplished so much during 2023 and have charted our path for 2024. Read all about it in this issue!

October 2023 - We share the dirt on when construction is expected to start at both locations and CATT Champion Carolyn proudly shares her recovery journey.

August 2023 - This edition features a reminder about the open house on September 13, news about the big money coming our way, and how opioid settlement funds are being put to good use. Additionally, one of our selected providers explains how they prioritize bringing culturally specific services to the community. Lastly, CATT Champion Ivy tells us about the professional and personal impact that problem substance use has had in her life.

SPECIAL EDITION AUGUST 1, 2023: The rescheduled date for the CATT open house is announced.

June 2023 - UPDATE JULY 26, 2023: The open house is delayed and will not occur on August 22. The new date will be selected soon. Our big news is that we've selected the construction firm that will manage the remodel and new build for the CATT! Our pre-construction open house is a "go" for August 22. Plus, you don't want to miss reading CATT Champion Ron's journey from addiction to recovery, in his own words.

April 2023 - In this issue we highlight the cool collaboration between local public safety agencies and CATT leaders to form common goals. We also discuss ongoing community outreach efforts, praise two committees that have completed their missions, talk about residential treatment and feature CATT Champion Carlos.

Press releases and media coverage

November 17, 2023 - The Oregonian/OregonLive "Washington County succeeded where Portland failed: Its addictions triage center is scheduled to open in 2025" (may require a subscription to view)

September 14, 2023 - Hillsboro News-Times"Inpatient addiction treatment services planned for former county 911 facility" (may require a subscription to view)

March 15, 2023 - Beaverton Valley Times "Plans emerge for new substance abuse treatment sites in Beaverton, Hillsboro" (may require a subscription to view)

July 19, 2022 - Beaverton Valley Times "Washington County secures Beaverton site for addiction center" (may require a subscription to view)

July 19, 2022 - Press Release "Washington County selects provider, architect for future addictions treatment center"

June 21, 2022 - The Lund Report "CODA to operate one-stop substance use recovery center in Washington County" (may require a subscription to view)

December 23, 2021 - Forest Grove News Times "Forest Grove joins opioid settlement" (may require a subscription to view)

July 26, 2021 - The Lund Report "Washington County greenlights one-stop recovery center for substance use" (may require a subscription to view)

July 22, 2021 - Beaverton Valley Times "Washington County OKs new addiction treatment center" (may require a subscription to view)

July 20, 2021 - Press Release The Board of County Commissioners unanimously adopted the Center for Addictions Triage and Treatment (CATT) Feasibility Study and directed staff to move forward with the project.

Throughout the project we have developed several documents to help shape key areas of our work. As the project progresses, please note that some information has changed from the time the documents were finalized. 

Designing the CATT has been a community effort. While County staff have facilitated the process, the design is based on input from many different people and organizations. Here is a description of several key work groups that are, or have, contributed to the work: 

ACTIVE WORK GROUPS

Leadership Team

Staff from several county departments have worked since 2019 to build the CATT concept. The Leadership Team organizes the project and plans for future work. The team also collects feedback from community members and other organizations to inform the development. 

Steering Committee 

View this page to learn more about the committee that began meeting in 2020.

Public Safety Work Group

This group brings together leaders in local public safety with the CATT Leadership Team to work on identified neighborhood safety concerns, facility admission criteria, partnering with existing programs, and opportunities for the CATT to divert community members from the criminal justice system.

INACTIVE WORK GROUPS

Data Work Group 

In 2019 this group collected and analyzed data to determine the projected client utilization, staffing patterns and service delivery.

Program Development Work Group

This group was active from October 2020 - June 2022 and helped create the foundation for the CATT project. 

Peer Space Committee

This committee met for three months in 2023 and made recommendations regarding the best use of the designated peer community space, which will be part of the Community Services Building. They also helped inform the selection criteria for the provider who will occupy the peer space resource.

Community Engagement Advisory Work Group

Over the course of a year, this group provided subject matter expertise on the development of the CATT Community Engagement Strategic Plan and a campaign to reduce stigma around substance use treatment. The work group also advised the Leadership Team on its ongoing community engagement work. 

Climate change is causing more rain in the winter in Oregon, which can lead to flooding or ice storms. Winter storms can bring unexpected power outages, business shutdowns and changes to your commute. It’s never too early to get ready for winter weather.

Below are resources to help you prepare for dealing with cold weather, including energy bill assistance and tips for heating your home efficiently. Above all else, community is critical to preventing illness and death in the face of climate change. When it’s extremely cold, be sure to check on your friends, family, and neighbors and share these resources with them.

Find a place to stay warm

• Washington County warming centers
• Multnomah County warming centers
• Clackamas County warming centers

Learn More

How to stay safe and warm in the extreme cold

Stay warm inside

Stay inside as much as possible. If you have to be outside, take frequent breaks indoors in warm areas and dress appropriately to ensure you stay warm.

If you go outside

• Protect the ears, face, hands and feet. Wear:
  • A hat
  • A scarf or knit mask to cover face and mouth
  • Sleeves that are snug at the wrist
  • Mittens (they are warmer than gloves)
  • Water-resistant coat
  • Waterproof and insulated boots or shoes
• Layers of clothing provide better insulation. Layers can also be removed if you become too hot.
• Be sure the outer layer of your clothing is tightly woven, preferably wind resistant, to reduce loss of body heat caused by wind.When there are high winds, serious weather-related health problems are more likely, even when temperatures are only cool.
• Wool, silk, or polypropylene inner layers of clothing will hold more body heat than cotton.
• Stay dry. Wet clothing chills the body rapidly. Excess sweat will increase heat loss, so remove extra layers of clothing whenever you feel too warm.
• Move into warm locations periodically. Limit the amount of time outside on extremely cold days.
• Move around. Physical activity raises body temperature.
• Do not ignore shivering. It's an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Persistent shivering is a signal to return indoors.
• Alcoholic beverages cause your body to lose heat more rapidly.

Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia

Know the signs of hypothermia

If your temperature is below 95°, the situation is an emergency. Get medical attention immediately.

Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can retain heat. This can create a dangerously low body temperature. Persistent shivering is a signal to return indoors. Watch for signs of hypothermia, including:

• Uncontrollable shivering
• Memory loss
• Disorientation
• Slurred speech
• Drowsiness

You may not know you have hypothermia. Do not ignore shivering. It’s an important first sign that the body is losing heat.

Getting treatment for someone with hypothermia

If medical attention is not available:

Do

• Get them into a warm place as soon as possible.
• Remove any wet clothing.
• Warm the center of the body first — chest, neck, head and groin — using an electric blanket or skin-to-skin contact under loose, dry layers of blankets, clothing, towels or sheets.
• After body temperature has increased, keep the person dry and wrapped in a warm blanket, including the head and neck.
• Get medical attention as soon as possible.

Do NOT

• Give the person hot beverages or food.
• Warm the person too quickly, like in hot bath or in front of a heater.
• Warm the arms and legs first; this can cause stress on the heart and lungs.
• Give alcoholic beverages.

Know the signs of frostbite

Do not ignore shivering. It’s an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Persistent shivering is a signal to return indoors. Signs of frostbite can include:

• Numbness
• White or grayish-yellow colored skin
• Firm or waxy skin

People with frostbite are often unaware until someone else points it out because the frozen tissues are numb. At the first signs of redness or pain in any skin area, get out of the cold or protect any exposed skin — frostbite may be setting in.

Getting treatment for someone with frostbite

If medical attention is not available:

Do

• If they are experiencing signs of hypothermia, treat those symptoms first.
• Get them to a warm place as soon as possible..
• Immerse the affected area in warm — not hot — water. The temperature should be comfortable to the touch for the unaffected parts of the body.Or, warm the affected area using body heat. For example, the heat of an armpit can be used to warm frostbitten fingers.
• Seek medical care as soon as possible.

Do NOT

• Walk on frostbitten feet or toes unless absolutely necessary,as this can cause more damage.
• Massage the frostbitten areas, as this can cause more damage.
• Use heating pads, lamps, stoves, fireplaces, or other heaters for warming. Affected areas are numb and can be easily burned.

How to heat your home safely

• Have your heating system, water heater,and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a technician every year.
• Do not use your oven for heat or bring charcoal or gas grills indoors. They are a carbon monoxide hazard.
• Don't place electric space heaters near curtains or other flammable materials. Turn them off before you go to bed.
• Make sure all portable heat-producing appliances are unplugged when they are not in use.
• Never leave candles unattended. Avoid burning candles indoors for long periods of time.
• Keep dryer vents clear of snow and ice.

Be aware of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning

This odorless, tasteless and colorless gas is created when fuel is burned.Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause loss of consciousness and death. If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, seek fresh air and consult a health care professional right away.

Common sources of carbon monoxide include:

• Space heaters
• Fireplaces and ovens
• Cars and trucks
• Clothes dryers
• Gas and oil heating systems

How to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Install and maintain a carbon monoxide detector in your home.
• Replace your carbon monoxide detector's batteries when you adjust your clock for Daylight Saving Time.
• Never operate any combustion engine indoors, even if you leave the door open.
• Do not warm your car up in a garage with the door closed. Make sure your tailpipe isn’t blocked by snow or debris when you start your car.
• Do not leave windows open near running cars or trucks.

Prepare for power outages

• Be 2 Weeks Ready – Gather food, medical supplies, batteries, pet supplies, among other things, needed by family members during an outage or evacuation for up to two weeks.
• Keep cell phones fully charged in anticipation of an outage. Get a car charger for cell phones and other electronics.
• Keep vehicle gas tanks at least half full, as power outages may impact fuel pumps at gas stations.
• Make sure your utility service provider has current contact information for notifications by updating your account online.
• For individuals with a medical condition that requires power, contact your service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. The utilities work to contact vulnerable customers, including those with medical certificates, in the event of an outage or power surge. Also, consider a backup generator or alternative location for power needs.

During a power outage

• Contact your electric utility service provider to inform them of an outage.
  • Portland General Electric – 800-544-1795
  • Forest Grove Light and Power – 503-412-2444
  • West Oregon Electric Cooperative – 800-777-1276
  • Pacific Power – 877-508-5088
  • Idaho Power – 800-488-6151
• Avoid downed power lines at all costs and stay clear of utility crews working to restore service in your community.
• Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns for emergency lighting. Do not use candles or other potential fire hazards.
• Turn off lights and unplug electric appliances except for the refrigerator and freezer to help avoid a surge to the system when service is restored. Leave one light on so you know when power has been restored.
• Do not run a generator inside the home or garage or anywhere near a window or vent, as these spaces can capture deadly levels of carbon monoxide. Learn more about proper use of a generator to avoid hazardous conditions.
• Check on older neighbors or anyone who might need additional assistance.

Natural gas tips during a power outage or evacuation

• If required to evacuate, you do not need to shut off your natural gas.
• If your natural gas appliances do not operate properly once power is restored, call your natural gas service provider.
• If natural gas service is shut off, do not turn it back on yourself. Call your natural gas service provider to restore service.
• If you smell natural gas, evacuate immediately and call 911.

Get help with your energy bills

• The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) includes bill payment assistance, energy education, case management and home weatherization services.
• The Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP) is a low-income electric bill payment assistance program for customers of Pacific Power and Portland General Electric.
• Get up to 25% off your monthly electric bill through Portland General Electric's (PGE) Income Qualified Bill Discount Program. 
• The Oregon Energy Fund (OEF) provides funds for energy assistance to more than 30 nonprofits that distribute to community members in need.

• Low-income renters and owners can receive energy bill credits and enjoy the benefits of solar energy by joining the Oregon Community Solar Program. 

  Oregon Community Solar for Low-Income Households (PDF 581.91 KB)

Apply for home heating and cooling support

Weatherization

You want to be sure your home is staying warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Weatherizing your home involves finding areas where warm or cold air may be lost, like windows, doors and vents, and then improving them. The following organizations provide free or low-cost weatherization assistance to low-income households.

• Community Action
• The Low Income Weatherization Program provides weatherization and energy conservation services at no cost to households at or below 200% of federal poverty income level.
• Through Energy Trust, landlords can receive up to $250,000 a year in cash incentives for increasing energy efficiency and weatherization at multifamily properties they manage. 

Cooling and heating support

• See if you are eligible to receive a free air conditioning unit through Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or Oregon Health Authority.
• Trillium's Flexible Services Program provides items and services to patients that benefit your health but might not be covered through traditional medical billing. Visit their webpages to learn how you can apply for heating and cooling support through their Flexible Services Program.
• Rebates are available for the installation of heat pumps, both renters and homeowners (link coming soon) can be eligible. Rebate amounts are based on income and efficiency of the heat pump installed. 
• Washington County is offering rebates of $1,500-$4,000 when you replace your old wood stove with a new stove, insert or other heating system. Some households will qualify for a full-cost replacement. We also have the occasional wood stove turn-in event where you can get paid to bring in your old wood stove. See if you are eligible to replace your old wood stove through the Woodstove Exchange Program.

Cooling and heating incentives for landlords

• Energy Trust of Oregon offers reimbursement of ductless heat pumps and other select cooling devices for landlords managing multifamily housing.
• Landlords who participate in the Landlord Provided Cooling Spaces Program through Energy Trust of Oregon can be reimbursed for installing cooling devices on approved multifamily or manufactured properties.

Substance use disorder treatment is often covered by insurance. If you do not have coverage, Washington County may be able to help. Funding is available for people with very low income who have limited or no insurance coverage. To be eligible you must live in Washington County. Services are available for youth and adults. 

There are many agencies that can provide these services and supports. For questions about eligibility, call the treatment provider agency of your choice and ask for county-funded services. Please see the list of providers below.

The Washington County Behavioral Health Resource Network (BHRN) has additional options for free and low cost substance use treatment services. The BHRN webpage also has links to a map that shows all treatment providers in the network, along with related services and resources.

Mental Health Treatment

Washington County also provides some mental health treatment funded by the county for uninsured and low-income individuals. Please visit our mental health webpage for more information.

You may apply to Washington County for death records up to the last day of the fifth month from date of death. For example, if your loved one died on January 10, you can apply for a death record from Washington County until July 9 during our regular business hours.

Use the order form below to request a death record. Fill it out completely to avoid a delay. Each certified death record is $25. If you apply in person, we can take cash, check, money order or credit card. If you apply by mail, we can take a check or money order made payable to Vital Records. Do not mail cash or include a credit card number when ordering by mail. You must mail or bring proof of identity. 

Ordering a death record

• A current valid ID is required. Visit the State's website for a complete list of what is accepted.
• "Long Certified" death record includes the medical portion of the record.
• "Short/Fact of Death Certified" death record does not include the medical portion of the record.

Access to death records is restricted for 50 years to immediate family members and their legal representatives, persons or organizations with a personal or property right, government agencies and individuals licensed in Oregon under ORS 703.430.

Who can order a "Long Certified" or "Short/Fact of Death" record

• Any immediate family member
• Staff from a funeral home that was in charge of final arrangements
• U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, the Director of Veteran Affairs, or any county service officer may request two free copies of the certificate of death
• Any government agency that needs the record to conduct business: law enforcement agencies, DMV, IRS, Social Security, etc.
• Anyone with a personal or property right: 
  • Any organization or business responsible for paying death benefits (insurance companies, employers, pension funds, etc.)
  • Businesses or credit companies that are owed money by the decedent
  • Divorced spouses For Social Security benefits
  • Immediate family members of a child for the biological father’s death record, even if the father is not listed on the child’s birth certificate. Family may be able to prove paternity by some means to satisfy requirements of Social Security for benefits.

Who can only order a "Short/Fact of Death" certified death record

• Non-family member or business trying to clear titles on properties or vehicles they own or have inherited. Normally the deceased person was a previous owner or co-owner of the property. A person who is looking to buy property where a deceased person is on the title does not have a right to the death record.
• Firms locating heirs as part of their business in the distribution of unclaimed estates. Requests should be made on official letterhead and state the reason for needing the record.
• Oregon licensed private investigators. Investigators must provide enough information to identify a specific record. Records ordered by mail must include a copy of the investigator's Oregon license.

Six months or longer from the date of death

Certified copies for individuals who died in Oregon six months ago or longer must be obtained from the Oregon Health Authority. 

Dogs in Washington County must be licensed. Licenses may cost less if you buy several years at one time; if your dog is spayed or neutered; or if you are at least 65 years old with a spayed or neutered dog. You may need to provide proof that you are eligible for these lower costs.

You must provide proof of a current rabies vaccination for your dog for the license to be valid. Your veterinarian can provide you with this proof.

How to license your dog

• License your dog online

• In person or by phone: Call or stop by the shelter in-person during our regular business hours. See building address and hours of operation.
• By mail: Download our application, fill it out and mail it to us at the address above.
  Dog License Application (PDF 145.61 KB)
• From your dog’s veterinarian: Many vets also sell licenses – ask about this when your dog receives their rabies vaccination!

Dog License Fees

See our Licensing Fees page for additional information about other fees related to licensing.

Our team of home visitors includes experienced registered nurses and certified community health workers. They can visit you regularly in your home at no cost while you are pregnant until your child is five years old. We speak English and Spanish. Interpretation in other languages is available at no cost.

Home visiting programs include Nurse Family Partnership, Babies First, CaCoon, Family Connects and Healthy Families. We help promote physical, social and emotional health by providing these services:

Screening and assessment

• Prenatal/postpartum screening for depression, anxiety, blood pressure and diabetes
• Growth and development of child
• Postpartum healing and care

Education

• What to expect during pregnancy, childbirth and after baby is born
• Nutrition, safety and child development 
• Parenting and self-care
• Health conditions and terms used by providers

Hands-on support

• Tips to care for you and your baby including breastfeeding/feeding, managing crying, soothing, playing and parent self-care
• Promote safe sleep environments 
• Safe and healthy play time

Coordinate and manage care

• Prenatal and postpartum care
• Well checks and immunizations for newborns and children
• High risk pregnancy
• Health care for children with special health care needs 

Connect with local resources

• WIC (Women, Infants & Children)
• Oregon Health Plan enrollment
• Self-sufficiency 
• Parenting education and supports
• Early intervention therapies
• Dental health
• Accessing health insurance and health care 
• Rent and utility assistance
• Educational opportunities and job training
• Playgroups, library activities and events for families
• Food, clothing, diapers and other needs

Who is eligible?

• If you live in Washington County AND
• You are pregnant or recently gave birth OR
• You have a newborn to five-year-old OR
• You have a child with special health needs

For more information, call 503-846-4872 or email [email protected].

If you live in Washington County and are currently in crisis call 503-291-9111.

If you are in immediate, life-threatening danger, call 911.

Everyone needs help sometimes. If you have behavioral health issues (mental health or addictions), sometimes you need help right away. The Hawthorn Walk-in Center provides urgent services for mental health and substance use concerns. It is located at 5240 NE Elam Young Parkway, Suite 100, in Hillsboro, right next to the Hawthorn Farm MAX stop.

If you do not live in Washington County please contact the county you live in for crisis services:

Clackamas County - 503-655-8585
Columbia County - 503-782-4499
Multnomah County - 503-988-4888
Yamhill County - 1-844-842-8200

When to seek help

Seek help if you or someone you care about is experiencing any of the following: 

• Confused thinking
• Prolonged depression (sadness or irritability)
• Feelings of extreme highs and lows
• Excessive fears, worries and anxieties
• Social withdrawal
• Dramatic changes in eating or sleeping habits
• Strong feelings of anger
• Strange thoughts or beliefs (delusions)
• Seeing or hearing things that aren’t there (hallucinations)
• Growing inability to cope with daily problems and activities
• Suicidal thoughts
• Numerous unexplained physical ailments
• Substance use

What to expect

Services at the Hawthorn Walk-in Center include: 

• Assessment
• Crisis counseling
• Education regarding mental health and addiction
• Peer support
• Connection to treatment providers and other social services

It might be possible to accomplish all of this in one visit, or we may ask you to come back for a follow-up.

There is no out-of-pocket cost for seeking help at the center. If you have insurance, we may bill for the service. If you are uninsured, there is no cost.

All conversations are confidential. If you are seeing a counselor or medical provider, we will ask if you are willing to sign a release of information document so we can coordinate your care with them.

The center is professionally staffed by LifeWorks NW Support is provided by counselors and trained peers who have lived experience with mental health challenges and/or addiction.

Extreme heat can be deadly. Climate change will increase the number and intensity of very hot days. Nighttime temperatures may not drop low enough to give relief from the day’s heat. Below are resources to help you prepare for dealing with hot weather. Above all else, community is critical to preventing illness and death in the face of climate change. When it’s extremely hot, be sure to check on your friends, family and neighbors and share these resources with them.

Find a place to stay cool

Cooling Centers in Washington County

Cooling Centers in Multnomah County

Cooling Centers in Clackamas County

Learn More

How to stay safe in the heat

Stay cool indoors

• Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location as much as you can.
• Drink plenty of fluids (water is best), even if you don't feel thirsty.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Close your blinds and curtains to keep sunlight out.
• If the temperature falls at night, open your windows to let the cool air in (if it is safe to do so).
• Use fans but do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device when it is very hot. Instead, mist yourself with a spray bottle, and then use the fan to get the cooling benefits of evaporation.
• Do not use your oven or do laundry on very hot days.
• Eat small, light meals.

If you go outside

• Drink plenty of fluids. Choose Gatorade or another sports drink if you are sweating a lot.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Use sunscreen.
• Exercise in the early morning when it's cooler.
• Avoid strenuous activity in the heat of the day.
• Never leave children or pets in cars. Read more about keeping pets safe in hot weather.
• Get a baby pool or play in a sprinkler. Visit a local sprayground or fountain.
• If you choose to swim or recreate in a local river or lake, be sure to wear a personal flotation device (life jacket) and take other safety precautions. More information on Red Cross page.

Download these guides to learn more

Stay Safe in the Heat Comic (ENGLISH) (PDF 3.64 MB)

Stay Safe in the Heat Comic (SPANISH) (PDF 3.54 MB)

 

Heat and Health from Oregon Health Authority (ENGLISH) (PDF 2.11 MB)

Heat and Health from Oregon Health Authority (SPANISH) (PDF 449.37 KB)

 

Know the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion

When your body can't cool itself quickly enough, it can cause heat exhaustion. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting. If you see someone with signs of overheating, move them to a cooler location, have them rest for a few minutes and give them a cool beverage to drink slowly. Get medical attention for them immediately if they do not feel better or if they are throwing up.

Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which can cause death or permanent disability unless treated immediately. Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
• Red, hot, dry skin
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Nausea, confusion and unconsciousness

Visit CDC's information about extreme heat.

Get a free ride to a cooling center

 

TriMet may offer free rides to cooling centers under emergency declarations or when the heat reaches 100 degrees or more. Ride to Care may be able to provide rides to cooling centers upon request. Call 855-321-4899

Get help with your energy bills

 

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) includes bill payment assistance, energy education, case management, and home weatherization services. The Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP) is a low-income electric bill payment assistance program for customers of Pacific Power and Portland General Electric.  Get up to 25% off your monthly electric bill through Portland General Electric's (PGE) Income Qualified Bill Discount Program The Oregon Energy Fund (OEF) provides funds for energy assistance to more than 30 nonprofits that distribute to community members in need.

Apply for home heating and cooling support

Weatherization

You want to be sure your home is staying warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Weatherizing your home involves finding areas where warm or cool air may be lost, like windows, doors, and vents, and improving them. The following organizations provide free or low-cost weatherization assistance to low-income households.

• Community Action

The Low Income Weatherization Program provides weatherization and energy conservation services at no cost to households at or below 200% of federal poverty income level. Through Energy Trust landlords can receive up to $250,000 per year in cash incentives for increasing energy efficiency and weatherization at multifamily properties they manage. Cooling/Heating Support See if you are eligible to receive a free air conditioning unit through Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or Oregon Health Authority. Trillium's Flexible Services Program provides items and services to patients that benefit your health but might not be covered through traditional medical billing. Visit their webpages to learn how you can apply for heating and cooling support through their Flexible Services Program. Rebates are available for the installation of heat pumps, both renters and homeowners (link coming soon) can be eligible. Rebate amounts are based on income and efficiency of the heat pump installed.  Washington County is offering rebates of $1,500-$4,000 when you replace your old wood stove with a new stove, insert or other heating system. Some households will qualify for a full-cost replacement. We also have the occasional wood stove turn-in event where you can get paid to bring in your old wood stove. See if you are eligible to replace your old wood stove through the Woodstove Exchange Program.  Low-income renters and owners can receive energy bill credits and enjoy the benefits of solar energy by joining the Oregon Community Solar Program. Oregon Community Solar for Low-Income Households (PDF 581.91 KB) Cooling/Heating Incentives for Landlords Energy Trust of Oregon offers reimbursement of ductless heat pumps and other select cooling devices for landlords managing multifamily housing. Landlords who participate in the Landlord Provided Cooling Spaces Program through Energy Trust of Oregon can be reimbursed for installing cooling devices on approved multifamily or manufactured properties.

If you are looking for a meaningful way to serve your community, the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) might be the perfect volunteer opportunity for you.

The MRC is an organization of licensed health care and medical professionals who can be called upon to assist in the response to large-scale health or medical emergencies and local public health events. The MRC is a national volunteer network, and the units are managed locally.

In 2021, the Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties’ Medical Reserve Corps units partnered to form the Tri-County Medical Reserve Corps Collaborative. The units have jointly formed a centralized administrative, onboarding, and training process to improve cross-county coordination, increase volunteer opportunities, and streamline deployments. However, each unit maintains its operational autonomy.

Who can join?

Anyone with a health or medical license (including alternative care) that is in good standing can join the MRC. Your license must be overseen by a state licensing board that conducts at least one criminal background check upon initial licensure.

To apply for unit membership with any of the Tri-County units, please fill out the registration form with the State Emergency Registry of Volunteers in Oregon (SERV-OR). When you fill this form out, you also can join the State Managed Volunteer Pool (SMVP)- the State of Oregon’s volunteer emergency response program.

Once you have completed the registration form, you will be contacted by our friendly staff within ten business days. Once you have been confirmed as a volunteer you will be assigned a Better Impact account to complete onboarding requirements and sign up for events.

Please note that the onboarding requirements take about two hours to complete. The deadline to complete the onboarding process is three months from when you are confirmed as a volunteer.

The onboarding requirements are listed below:

• Medical Reserve Corps Orientation (Video)
• HIPAA Review (Video)
• Bloodborne Pathogens (Training)
• OSHA Heat Illness Prevention (Training)
• Disability Training for Emergency Planners: Serving People with Disabilities
• Responder Resilience (Factsheet)

Opportunities to learn and serve

Volunteers can participate in a variety of emergency and non-emergency operations in the region, including:

• Outreach and Education: Engaging in outreach to the public to support community preparedness efforts, public health awareness campaigns, and other areas of interest..
• Teaching: Stop the Bleed, Fall Prevention for Seniors, Compression only CPR, CPR/AED certification, First Aid certification, Emergency Preparedness.
• Learning: Trainings including Basic Disaster Life Support, Advanced Disaster Life Support, Triage, Wilderness First Aid and many other exciting courses provided at no cost to our volunteers.
• Practicing: Setting up secondary and tertiary medical care for an extensive simulated disaster response exercise with area Community Emergency Response Teams.
• First Aid: Providing first aid services at community events such as Take a Soldier Fishing, Seattle to Portland Bike Event hosted by local non-profit agencies.
• Serving: Staffing community reception centers, shelter or call center operations during emergencies. Helping partner agencies such as Medical Teams International (MTI), Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), Red Cross and many others.

Questions? 

Please contact us via email  Regional Medical Reserve Corps Program Specialist.

We hope to see you soon!

Family health, pregnancy and babies

• Reproductive and sexual health education
• Nurse home visiting services for families from pregnancy through early childhood (referral form below)
• Help Me Grow supports healthy development and connects families to needed services and programs

Parenting education and support

• Parenting Together Washington County hosts a website with parenting resources and a calendar of events 
• Family Resource Coordinators connect families with resources and services

School readiness and success

• Early Learning Washington County maintains a listing of free preschool and early learning programs and a calendar of events, meetings and workshops 
• Preschool Promise assists with enrollment in free preschool for eligible families  
• Black Student Success supports school readiness and student success  

We can connect you with the right services and programs. If you aren't sure which program or service you need, contact us and we can help!

Call 503-846-4872 or email [email protected].

Our Reproductive Health team provides resources and education for community-based organizations, schools and our diverse communities in Washington County. We also lead the county’s Reproductive Health Coalition that works to promote access to and utilization of reproductive and sexual health care for all people in Washington County by coordinating activities, resources and services.

Educational sessions 

These sessions are offered in person or by Zoom in English or Spanish. Topics include:

• Birth control and reproductive health
• Sexually transmitted infections/HIV
• Healthy relationships
• How to talk with your kids about sex and sexuality

For more information, email Vikki Villarreal.

Reproductive Health Coalition

Meets the first Tuesday of the month from 9-10:30 a.m. in January, March, May, July, September and November. All are welcome. Meetings include informative speakers, networking opportunities, and new resources, referrals, opportunities and events. Currently meeting by Zoom. To be added to the mailing list, email Vikki Villarreal.

Reproductive health services

Services such as STI/HIV testing, birth control, pregnancy testing, pap smears and Plan B, are available at these community clinics in Washington County:

• Neighborhood Health Center (Hillsboro/Tanasbourne Clinics): 503-941-3016
• Planned Parenthood Beaverton Clinic: 888-875-7820
• Virginia Garcia Women’s Clinic (Hillsboro): 503-359-5564

Resources

• Bedsider – Information on birth control and sexual health
• GLSEN – LGBTQ resources
• Advocates for Youth – Reproductive health and sexual health for youth
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention