Summer EBT for school-aged children returns
Officials with the Oregon Summer EBT, a federal benefits program to help families buy food for their school-aged children during the summer, said it expects to provide up to 370,000 children with around $40 million in food benefits this year.
Each eligible child receives a one-time payment of $120 in food benefits.
About 341,500 eligible children received Summer EBT automatically May 22, but some families need to apply.
• Find details about Summer EBT at sebt.oregon.gov
• Additional resources to help meet basic needs
• Find a food pantry: oregonfoodbank.org.
• Find summer meal sites: fns.usda.gov/summer/sitefinder
Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities:
• Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or adrcoforegon.org.
• Dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211, 211info.org
• Find local resources and support by contacting your local Community Action Agency: caporegon.org/find-help
CASA grant to strengthen volunteer engagement
CASA of Lane County has been awarded $257,000 through a three-year grant from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust to fund two key staff positions: a Grants & Communications Coordinator and a Volunteer Recruitment Coordinator. This investment is a step forward in advancing CASA’s 5-year strategic plan, which sets a goal to serve 650 children and youth annually by the year 2029, officials said.
The newly funded roles will help strengthen the organization’s infrastructure and increase capacity to recruit, train, and support the volunteer advocates who serve children navigating the foster care and child welfare systems.
The Grants & Communications Coordinator position has already been filled and is helping elevate CASA’s messaging, outreach, and sustainability efforts. CASA of Lane County is actively seeking to fill the Volunteer Recruitment Coordinator position, which will be instrumental in expanding the volunteer base needed to meet the increasing demand for advocacy services.
More info: casa-lane.org.
Ways to speak out about proposed library cuts
The city’s Fiscal Stability Task Force recommended on May 19 a $500,000 cut in the budget of the Springfield Public Library & Springfield History Museum. If you’re interested in showing your support for the library, there are a number of things to do:
• Reach out to your city councilor. “I Support The Library” postcards are available at the Friends’ store inside the library.
• Attend a City Council meeting on June 2 and 16. Public comment will be accepted June 2 and 16, and a work session is planned for June 30. Make your voice heard, and join us to fill the audience section.
• Follow the Springfield Public Library Foundation and Friends of the Springfield Public Library and History Museum on social media to get the latest information.
• Display an “I Love the Library” lawn sign if you have one. Donations are being accepted to purchase more.
