Our story
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Since Day One
12+
Years serving families
Our mission
A Steady Hand For Every Family On Our Block
Harborlight Community Fund began in 2014 when a handful of Portland neighbors pooled grocery money for families after the mill layoffs. That one act of generosity never stopped growing.
Today we run weekend meal drives, mobile medical camps, tutoring classrooms, and school supply programs across the greater Portland area — powered by more than 300 volunteers and thousands of monthly givers.
48k
Meals served
320+
Volunteers
96%
Gifts to programs
What guides us
Values We Refuse To Compromise
Neighbors First
Every program starts by listening. Families tell us what they need, and we build around their real lives — never the other way around.
Radical Transparency
Ninety-six cents of every dollar reaches programs. Our books are open, our reports are plainspoken, and our doors are always open.
Dignity Always
Nobody stands in a line holding a handout here. Guests choose their groceries, kids pick their backpacks, and everyone is a neighbor.
How we work
From Your Gift To Their Table In Four Steps
- 1 You give or sign upA one-time gift, a monthly pledge, or a volunteer shift — every contribution starts the chain.
- 2 We buy local and freshGroceries, medicines, and supplies come from neighborhood stores and clinics first.
- 3 Volunteers deliver weeklyMeal boxes, clinic days, and tutoring sessions run on a steady weekly rhythm.
- 4 We report back to youPhotos, numbers, and family stories land in your inbox every single month.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Ninety-six percent funds programs directly — groceries, clinic supplies, tutors, and backpacks. The remaining four percent keeps the lights on. Our annual report breaks every dollar down in plain language.
Fill in the volunteer form on our contact page and join a Saturday orientation. Most roles — packing, driving, tutoring — need no experience, just two hours a week.
Absolutely. From gala tables to full cause sponsorships, we tailor partnerships with logo placement, team volunteer days, and impact reports. Write to hello@harborlightfund.org to start.
Yes. Harborlight Community Fund is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit. Every gift receives an emailed receipt you can use at tax time.