ODHS and ODE Encourage Families to Act Now to Secure Summer EBT Benefits
As summer begins to wind down, Oregon families have a limited window to secure essential food assistance through the Summer EBT program. The program offers $120 per child to help cover grocery costs when school food programs are not as easy to access. With the application deadline approaching on September 3rd, it's crucial for families to act now. Thousands of families may be unaware that they qualify for this essential benefit. The Oregon Department of Human Services and Oregon Department of Education are urging families to check their eligibility and apply before the deadline. Once benefits are received, you have 122 days to use them. Most eligible children received their benefits automatically on May 22nd if their households participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or are Oregon Health Plan members in households with incomes under 185% of the Federal Poverty Level. Children in foster care also automatically received Summer EBT. However, families who did not receive benefits automatically should still apply to determine their eligibility. Families are encouraged to visit "sebt.oregon.gov" or contact the Summer EBT Call Center at (833)-673-7328 to verify their eligibility and apply. ...Read more

Oregon Agency Recommends Steps to Protect Families from Theft of Food and Benefits
Hundreds of Oregon families have reported that their food or cash benefits were stolen from their EBT cards, likely through organized crime. The Oregon Department of Human Services recommends three things you can do today to protect yourself and your family. Freeze the card between uses, block out online purchases and regularly check your EBT account. Visit "EBTEdge.com" to take these actions now. If your benefits were stolen, be sure to report it right away. Cancel your card and order a new one. You can call 1-(855)-328-6715 weekdays or 1-(888)-997-4447 on weekends. There is much more information about to protect your food and benefits online. Please visit "benefits.oregon.gov." ...Read more

Conductor Norman Huynh Named Next Music Director of the Britt Festival Orchestra
Britt Music and Arts Festival has announced that American conductor Norman Huynh (pronounced 'win') will become the fifth music director to lead the Britt Festival Orchestra in the ensemble's 62-year history. Described as a conductor of "impeccable music taste and irresistible personal charm" who "brings energetic flair to familiar classics," Huynh will assume his new role for a three-year term beginning this month. As music director of the Britt Festival Orchestra, Hyunh will serve as principal conductor and artistic leader of the orchestra's three-week summer season, leading seven to nine performances on the festival's outdoor amphitheater stage in Jacksonville. ...Read more