Portland City Council Allocates $150,000 to Support Immigrant and Refugee Legal Services
The Portland City Council unanimously approved $150,000 in funding for legal support services for immigrants and refugees on Wednesday, March 5, 2026. The funds will be directed to SOAR Immigration Legal Services, a program of the Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon, as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in Portland remains elevated.
Funding Details and Allocation
The funding originates from the city’s Legal Priorities Reserve Fund, designated for unexpected legal expenses. Councilor Elana Pirtle-Guiney, the legislation’s chief sponsor, stated that the New Portlanders Policy Commission recommended the funding package for SOAR.
A proposed amendment by City Councilor Candace Avalos to increase the allocation to $300,000 and distribute it among three providers was rejected. City Attorney Robert Taylor expressed concern about reducing the Legal Priorities Reserve Fund by $300,000, influencing the council’s decision.
About SOAR Immigration Legal Services
SOAR Immigration Legal Services provides culturally competent, immigration-related legal representation and education to refugees and immigrants with limited income throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington. The organization, authorized by the Department of Justice, offers services including representation in asylum, DACA, TPS, family-based immigration, naturalization, and removal defense. SOAR has offices in Portland and Hillsboro.
Context of Increased ICE Activity
The decision to allocate additional funding comes amid reports of increased ICE activity in Portland and concerns regarding recent arrests. The funding aims to provide crucial legal resources to vulnerable populations navigating the complexities of the immigration system.
New Portlanders Policy Commission Debate
Discussion during the council meeting revealed some confusion regarding the New Portlanders Policy Commission’s official stance on Avalos’ amendment. Avalos stated she had received endorsements from the commission chair and another member, Jorge Sanchez Bautista. However, another commission member, Kerri Babin, clarified that the NPPC had not officially discussed or endorsed the amendment as a body. Avalos later clarified that her support came from conversations with Sanchez Bautista and the chair.
Looking Ahead
This funding represents a commitment by the Portland City Council to support immigrants and refugees in the face of increasing challenges. The allocation to SOAR Immigration Legal Services will bolster their capacity to provide essential legal assistance to those in demand.