PCC federal monitoring and resources
The Administration has issued executive orders, memos, and actions that may have an impact on higher education. The college is closely monitoring developments, particularly those that may affect students and the college, such as financial aid, workforce training, immigration policy, and civil rights. Portland Community College is committed to keeping our community informed and prepared to respond to any changes and updates. Information and resources will be posted to this page.
We understand that uncertainty in federal policy can create uneasiness. Students and the community remain our top priority, and we will do everything necessary to navigate these times while staying steadfast in our mission and maintaining the high-quality education and support services PCC is known for.
College communications
- January 30: Message from President Bennings addresses changing Federal policies
- March 6: Message from the President’s Cabinet announcing the Federal Response Task Force
- March 21: Message from the Federal Response Task Force Co-Chairs in response to the Executive Order aimed at the Department of Education
- April 11: Message from the Federal Response Task Force Co-Chairs regarding F1 Visa status changes and the Oregon Attorney General lawsuit.
- May 2: PCC Community Update on Federal Actions
- August 1: PCC Community Update on Federal Actions
- September 23: PCC Community Update on Federal Actions
- October 2: PCC Federal Response Taskforce Community Update
- October 30: Federal Response Taskforce Community Update
Resources
Monitoring federal changes
Know your rights
- National Immigration Law Center – Your rights specifically related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
- ACLU Know Your Rights – Choose scenarios where you might need to inform someone of your rights, including immigration rights.
- Know Your Rights Video 1 ( 2-4 min) – Depicts different situations related to knowing your rights.
- Know Your Rights Video 2 (7 min) – A longer, detailed video explaining key rights.
- Family Educational Rights and Privacy (FERPA) – Federal law that protects the privacy of students by limiting who can access their education records.
Hotlines and community support
- City of Portland Resources for Immigrants and Refugees – This page provides resources for immigrants and refugees.
- Latino Network Hotline – Protect your rights, regardless of immigration status: 1-844-924-7829
- Portland Immigration Coalition (PIC) – Defend immigrant rights and report ICE activity in Oregon: 1-888-622-1510
- United We Dream – A youth-led network fighting for immigrant dignity and respect:
- Call 1-844-363-1423
- Text 877877 to report ICE raids or abuse
Family and individual preparedness
- How to Create/Order Red Cards – A quick summary of constitutional rights for individuals in the U.S.
- Family Preparedness Plan – Steps to protect your family in case of an emergency.
- Action List & Immigrant Rights – What immigrant families can do now, available in multiple languages.
- Protect Your Family – Resources to safeguard your family during times of crisis.
Legal resources
- Legal support services – Legal support through SOAR Immigration Legal Services.
- Need an Immigration Lawyer? – Enroll in ECO on the website or call 1-888-274-7292.
International students
The Office of International Student Services (OISS) supports students who study at PCC with an F-1 student visa. Our office remains aware of, and up to date on, policy changes that may impact this visa status, communicating with F-1 International students directly. Visit the OISS resources webpage for more information.
Resources for students
- Student Basic Needs Centers and Fall Offerings
- Panther Pantry is a free pantry stocked with food and hygiene supplies
- Peer Resource Navigators assist students with food and basic needs resources and referrals
- Basic Needs Assistance Form to help students connect to resources
- CARE Referral Form for students concerned about academic success
- Counseling & Wellness Services provides free mental health counseling for students
Community food resources
- FAQ on SNAP Benefits and Federal Shutdown
- Check EBT balance – unused SNAP benefits will still be available after November 1
- ODHS Food Resources website lists emergency food support programs
- Oregon Food Bank Food Finder
- Multnomah County Mobile Health Clinic visits SE Campus and offers free and low-cost medical, dental, and behavioral health full schedule