Northwest Family Services

Mission

Northwest Family Services supports family stability, child well-being, and victims of crime by addressing the social determinants of health. 

Bottom Line for Portland

At NWFS, we do more than meet needs—we empower people. Over 20,000 neighbors in the Portland and Salem metro areas turned to us in 2023 for support with basic needs, behavioral health, health navigation, housing stability, and youth empowerment. Our culturally responsive team shows up, in English and Spanish, to meet folks where they are and help them move forward. Every $10 makes a difference—let’s empower our community, together! 

Quote

“Honestly, at first, you feel bad because you don't think you'll end up in a place like this... You feel small, but the [NWFS staff] make you feel that you are not alone… that you are somehow supported.” - NWFS Program Participant

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Northwest Family Services, through our mission, practices, and the services we offer, is committed to the belief that all people deserve dignity and respect. As we serve our communities, we will continue to work together to listen, to learn, and to act to overcome historic values and structures that have led to discrimination and inequities.

We are committed to creating a culture of belonging, where all staff are valued and given the opportunity to grow and succeed equitably. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, sexual orientation, primary language, ethnic background, or socioeconomic status. NWFS pursues policies, strategies, and programs that promote cultural responsiveness in our daily work.

Incentives

The first 25 donors under the age of 35 who give $10 or more will receive a coupon from Great American Video and Espresso for a free treat.

The first 15 donors to give $25 or more in the month of November will receive a $10 gift card to The Smoking Jay.
 
The first 10 donors to give $50 or more will receive a $20 gift card to Yolotl Mexican Restaurant.
 
The first 20 donors to give $25 or more in the month of December will receive a $10 gift card to Great American Video and Espresso.

Partner(s)

We are so grateful for our generous, locally owned community partners - thank you! 

Great American Video and Espresso is located right across the street from our main office, in Milwaukie, and is frequented by our staff for their delicious, life-giving coffee. Great American has generously donated $125 in free treat coupons and $200 in gift cards.  

Across the other street from the NWFS main office is The Smoking Jay, a mouthwatering BBQ joint that is the “go-to” place in Milwaukie for brisket. The Smoking Jay has graciously donated $150 in gift cards to NWFS donors.

The owner and operator of Yolotl Mexican Restaurant once received assistance from Northwest Family Services.  We helped her pay some bills when she was in need, and she is now a thriving business owner in Happy Valley! Yolotl has enthusiastically donated $200 in gift cards to support NWFS in Give!Guide.  

Nonprofit Partners

Heretogether is a coalition united around a shared vision: a Portland where everyone has a safe place to call home.

Dougy Center provides support in a safe place where children, teens, young adults, and families who are grieving can share their experiences before and after a death.

Rose Haven is a low-barrier agency that exists to provide day shelter, resources, emotional support, and community connections to women, children, and marginalized genders experiencing homelessness and poverty.

Mother and Child Education Center provides a judgment-free space for anyone who is parenting — including expectant parents, single parents, and families facing challenges such as lack of housing, poverty, fleeing domestic violence, refugee or immigration status, DHS involvement, substance abuse, or trauma — no matter the situation, they are here to support anyone who comes to their front door.