District 32 Representative Tiffiny Mitchell has provided some useful links for people who need help as Oregon struggles to contain the COVID-19 virus.
Filing an Initial Unemployment Claim
You can apply for an initial unemployment claim using the online claim system here. Go to this website for help. On the left side, are links to step-by-step application guides/videos, the Unemployed Worker Handbook, FAQs, and online applications for regular unemployment benefits and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA).
Restarting Your Unemployment Claim
If your employment is affected by the “freeze” and you had a claim that has since closed, you can restart your unemployment claim using the online claim system here (it’s the 8th button down). If you have any issues restarting your claim the fastest way to get a response is to use the “contact us” form: and check the Restarting my claim option if you are unable to restart it online . For longer term or more complicated issues, please email our office at rep.tiffinymitchell@oregonlegislature.gov and we will do whatever we can to help resolve your issue.
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Expires December 26th
Unfortunately, unless there is another stimulus bill in the lame duck session, PUA is set to expire December 26th. You will still be paid for benefits you are eligible for, even if it is not processed until after that date, but if you are only eligible for PUA, you will not be eligible for any benefits for weeks after that date. This applies to anyone who would not have otherwise been eligible for UI, for example if you are an independent contractor or self-employed.
Assistance for Individuals and Families
Food Assistance
Apply for SNAP benefits here.
Find Food Banks and pantries here.
Apply for WIC here.
Meals on Wheels People – For Homebound Seniors
Rental Assistance
You can go to this website to see where in your area you can apply for rental assistance.
Energy Assistance
You can go to this website to see where in your area you can apply for energy assistance.
Healthcare Coverage
The Oregon Health Plan is available at anytime. Individuals can learn more about their eligibility and what benefits might be available here.
Mental Health Resources
The Oregon Health Authority shared this list of things you can do to take care of your mental health during this difficult time. Additional resources are available here.
- The Crisis Text Line: text TALK to 741741
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK.
Workforce and Housing Resources
- Business Oregon Resource Page
- Oregon Housing and Community Resources Website
- Employment Department Page on Unemployment Insurance
Domestic Violence Resources
A list of resources is available on the Oregon Department of Justice website. Additionally, here is a list of crisis lines:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline (English and Spanish) – 800-799-7233
- National Sexual Assault Hotline – 800-656-4673
- Call to Crisis Line (formerly the Portland Women Crisis Line) – (503) 235-5333 or toll-free at 888-235-5333
Community Support Organizations
Coastal Community: COVID Reach-out
Knappa Community Helping Hands
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Roger Rocka, Astoria Ward 1 