Oregon Center for Public Policy

Mission

Right now, many Oregon families are finding it a struggle just to get by. Despite their hard work, more than two in every five Oregonians live in a home without the income needed to meet their basic needs. This reality is the result of policy choices we have made as a state. Choices that are keenly felt at every kitchen table. 

At OCPP, we put everyday people at the center of the story and develop policies that help pull up a chair for the people that policy too often leaves out. Our research, analysis, and advocacy help build economic justice for all Oregonians.

Families at kitchen tables throughout the state are living the consequences of policy choices. Together, we can change policies to ensure all workers, not just the wealthy few, enjoy the benefits of our economy. We need you by our side, and our goal is clear: inspire 200 donors to give between November 1 and December 31. 

Your support powers our ability to research and share people-centered policy choices that can rechart our state’s economic path. Policies that put families and children first and build a more inclusive economy that benefits Oregonians at every kitchen table. For an example of how OCPP humanizes policy choices, watch our mini documentary on Oregon’s SNAP crisis "We Can't Pay $13 for Cheese".

Bottom Line

Economic inequality has been growing for more than 40 years. The level of influence that corporations and the ultra-rich can wield on our elected representatives has led to an economic system heavily tilted to favor the rich. When three billionaires in Oregon own twice the wealth of the bottom 50% of all Oregonians, it’s clear that the current system isn’t working for most of us.

The bottom line is that change isn’t going to come from slogans or talking points; it’s going to take tangible policies that rechart our economic path. Some of the real policies we know would begin to correct this imbalance and create a more inclusive economy: 

• * Establishing a wealth proceeds tax, a highly practical way of taxing sources of concentrated wealth
• * Strengthening worker protections through workforce standards boards
• * Strengthening the state’s child tax credit, so that families are better able to make ends meet
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OCPP exists to respond to the challenges faced by families throughout the state. Your gift today helps write real families back into the conversation with policy solutions that have real impact at the kitchen tables from Portland to Pendleton. 

Quote

"As a proud granddaughter of migrant workers, I cherish the simple yet profound lessons from my family's journey. We may have had little, but the safety nets in place ensured we never went without food. It's this foundation of support and resilience that I carry with me, fueling my commitment as an OCPP board member, advocating for policies that uplift all families and ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive." – Angie Garcia, OCPP Board Member

Partner(s)

Thank you Bernstein's Bagels for providing financial support for our Give!Guide campaign.