Benefits Navigator

Benefits Navigator Program

What is a Benefits Navigator?

  • In 2021, the Oregon legislature passed House Bill 2835 (HB2835), the Benefits Navigator Bill, providing $4.99 million for basic needs support for students at community colleges and public universities in Oregon. The bill aims to close the opportunity gap and facilitate economic mobility by increasing access to federal, state, and local benefits for low-income students at community colleges and public universities.
  • One task of the Benefits Navigator is to find and connect resources that address the basic needs of our students to all our student populations here at EOU. For example, if a student needs housing assistance, the Benefits Navigator finds a resource to help with rental or utility assistance. These resources range from food, housing, healthcare, and transportation.
  • Increase awareness of local, state, and federal benefits for our students and provide support in enrolling them in these benefits. These benefits include SNAP and Oregon Health Plan(OHP) benefits.
  • To continue providing resources to our student populations, the Benefits Navigator creates long-lasting partnerships with various agencies locally, regionally, and federally. These agencies include, but are not limited to, local businesses, community-based organizations, Community Health Workers, federal offices like ODHS, and more.

At EOU, the Benefits Navigator is here to provide services and referrals, make meaningful connections, and help you be the best student you can be. 

The resources shared here are to help you succeed and meet your basic needs. If you need help navigating or don’t know where to start, call the Benefits Navigator at 541-962-3741 or email pfredrick@eou.edu or resourceadvocate-group@eou.edu.

Contact Your Benefits Navigator

Pamela Fredrick-Williams
Office Location: Hoke 212
Office Number: 541-962-3741 Email: pfredrick@eou.edu Book an appointment with Pamela

On-campus Resources

Employment

Food

Internet/Technology

Healthcare Support

Title IX

On-campus Housing

Transportation

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Other On-campus Resources

Basic Needs Support Services

  • Free meal passes
  • Thrift Store vouchers
  • Grocery Support
  • Gas & Fuel Cards
  • Computer Check-out
  • Textbook Vouchers
  • Personal Hygiene Kits

Off-campus Resources

211info

The 211 nonprofit contact center was launched in 1980 as a crisis line. In 2004, it was transformed into a 211 service, providing callers with referrals to basic needs programs such as food, shelter, health care, and more. Since then, 211 has expanded: consumers can still reach the service by calling 211, but they can also text or email or use the 211 mobile app and online database.

To speak with a Community Information Specialist about resources in your area:

Call 24 hours per day / 7 days a week or search for resources on their online database or download the 211 app.

Child Care & Parenting

Employment

Food

Internet/Technology

Legal Services

Healthcare Support

Financial Stability

Transportation

Utilities

Off-campus Housing