Save Markham SUN School

Multnomah County is proposing to cut Markham Elementary’s SUN Community School program. Here’s what that means for our community.

Funding at risk

SUN Community Schools is a Multnomah County program that turns schools into community hubs—staying open longer to provide a wide range of services for students, families, and neighbors. Multnomah County’s proposed cuts would close 13 SUN sites across the county, with SW Portland locations among the most vulnerable. At Markham Elementary, the SUN program is a lifeline for hundreds of families. Cutting this funding doesn’t just affect after-school activities—it cuts off access to food, health care, and support services that many families have nowhere else to turn.

SUN Community Schools partners: Multnomah County, Schools Uniting Neighborhoods, Impact NW, Portland Public Schools, and Portland Parks & Recreation

What’s at Stake

After-School Programs

  • Quality instruction and enrichment activities for kids

Food Access

  • On-site food pantry
  • Free Food Markets for families in need

Health Resources

  • Connections to health and mental health services
  • School-based health clinics

Adult Education

  • English language classes
  • Computer skills training

Family Support

  • Help accessing shelter and housing resources
  • Utility bill assistance

Community

  • Family engagement events
  • Neighborhood connection and belonging

alert Take Action alert

Time is running out. Contact Multnomah County officials and demand they keep funding the SUN program at Markham. Deadline: March 13.