General COVID19 Portland

Stay Home, Save Lives
#2020 #mood

The virus COVID-19 has changed our daily life drastically. We know that many folks are struggling and others are doing all they can to give back. We are so thankful to all of our community that are currently working the front lines. Let's do our part and minimize shopping trips and keep our distance from folks outside our household.
 

Minimizing the Curve in Oregon

A report released on March 23rd, "Projected COVID-19 epidemic trends and health system needs for Oregon" shows that if we stick with our social distancing measures, we can minimize the burden on our health care system and minimize loss of life. Returning to business as usual too soon could result in devastating affects on our health care systems and cause lives to be lost unnecessarily. We must do our part to flatten the curve.

Local Resources

COVID-19 Scams

Scam artists are already preying on vulnerable individuals. Check out this Oregonian article, "Oregon’s U.S. Attorney, FBI warn of new fraud schemes exploiting coronavirus pandemic" for a list of scams and how to report them. 
 

Managing Mental Health during Stressful Times

Many folks may be experiencing trauma or may be having a traumatic response to the current stress level. Our lives have been upended in many ways. Common responses include one or a combination of fatigue, anger, irritability, mood swings, feeling numb, insomnia, difficulty concentrating, or muscle tension. These are all normal responses to the stress we are collectively experiencing right now. You are not alone. The National Alliance for Mental Health has developed a COVID-19 Resource and Information Guide and the CDC has a page on how to Manage Anxiety & Stress. Pride Northwest has put together a list of resources for folks who are experiencing thoughts of suicide or domestic violence. 
 

Unemployment Benefits

Many of our community members work in the food service industry or as 1099 employees. The US Congress just passed the HR478 CARES Act, this expands unemployment benefits to many workers who were previously not covered. Watch for more information to be released about that in coming days. In the meantime, go to the State of Oregon Unemployment Department website to learn more about if you qualify currently for unemployment benefits, and how to file. 
 

Undocumented Community

Folks who are undocumented face more barriers in accessing resources, especially now. Here is a spreadsheet of resources for the undocumented community.
 

Short Term Loan from Innovative Changes

Innovative Changes (a program of CASA of Oregon) is offering a low-barrier, small dollar loan with no interest or payments for 60 days for those whose income has been interrupted. Key points: up to $500, no payments or interest for 60 days, no collateral required. Learn more and apply here: https://www.innovativechanges.org/emergencyloan

Pride Northwest