ODHS Shares Update on Snap Work Rule Impacts

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) last month warned that 6,948 people were at risk of having SNAP benefits close at the end of April due to federally directed changes to SNAP work rules. According to ODHS, those closures and reductions have now taken effect. The average SNAP benefit for affected cases was about $287 per month, money that would otherwise have been spent on groceries in local communities across Oregon. An additional 6,309 people are currently at risk of having SNAP benefits close or reduce at the end of May. Even if SNAP benefits stop and a person’s EBT card does not have June benefits on it, they may still be able to regain benefits by meeting work rules, qualifying for an exemption, or reporting a change in their situation. ODHS has been working to connect with people before benefits stop. Approximately 20,000 people were notified in March that their SNAP benefits could close if they did not meet work requirements or qualify for an exemption. People who need to meet work rules can receive free employment and training support through partnerships between ODHS, the Oregon Employment Department and WorkSource Oregon. ...Read more

Public Assistance Requested in Search for Missing Elderly Man
Grants Pass Police are seeking the public's help in locating a missing elderly man. Scott Smith, 68, was last seen Friday, May 22nd, at his NE A Street residence prior to leaving in his white 2006 Ford Taurus, Oregon license plate #008RBW. He's described as 6'2" and weighing 250 pounds. If you know or have seen Mr. Smith since his disappearance last week, contact your local law enforcement agency or the Grants Pass Police Department at 541-450-6260. Reference Case #2026-18040. ...Read more

ODF Grants Reduce Wildfire Risks

The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) launched a new round of funding through its Small Forestland Grant Program to help landowners reduce wildfire risk before and after the 2026 fire season. This year, ODF awarded funds to 11 projects to mitigate wildfire risk on 1,023 acres by reducing hazardous fuels, improving community preparedness, and supporting long-term landscape resilience. Most of the funded work is in Southern and Central Oregon, where wildfire risk is especially high. One example of success comes from the Applegate Partnership and Watershed Council, based in Jacksonville, Oregon, which received Small Forestland Grant funds to complete significant fuels reduction and community engagement work. ODF also coordinates with state and federal partners to maximize the impact of investments for landscape resiliency. The project used about $269,000 to significantly improve ...Read more