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August 3, 2023 in Health NewsHOPE News

Homeless Response News 8-3-23

Stories of HOPE: Jay & Lena from Community Outreach, Inc.

“COI was a game changer. That’s where it all started for us… We would have lost our kids to addiction. COI did a good job. They were there every step of the way.” 

Jay and Lena spent 27 and 20 years, respectively, addicted to meth. After several stops and starts in other programs and what Jay describes as “hitting brick wall after brick wall,” they came to Community Outreach, Inc, (COI). Their daughters had been removed from the family and were staying with friends. COI opened up two family units for them and they were able to reunite with their daughters.

Newly clean, Jay found employment quickly. His energy and work ethic led to advancement and additional opportunities. Through a generous supporter at a local church, they found affordable housing. They’ve been stably housed for almost 5 years.

Lena says, “COI helped me as a mother being more responsible and cleaning up. They helped me have accountability. The programs blessed us. It was hard. Sometimes I thought, ‘forget it!’ but I knew it’s what helped get the kids stability.”

Jay says, “COI was a game changer. That’s where it all started for us. The state would have taken our kids. We would have lost our kids to addiction. COI did a good job. They were there every step of the way.”

Oregon grants $1.2 million to Benton County providers for rapid re-housing

A screen grab from a virtual meeting.

Oregon Housing and Community Services is working with local planning groups to allocate $26 million in funding for rapid rehousing and sheltering through House Bill (HB) 5019 to counties in the Rural Oregon Continuum of Care (ROCC), which includes Benton County. 

  • $1.2 million will be allocated in Benton County to support rapid rehousing for 33 people by June 30, 2025. 
  • Another $6 million in sheltering funds is available through a competitive application process amongst the 26 counties in the ROCC. 

The Benton County Coordinated Homeless Response Office compiled input and data from local homeless service providers and engaged in conversations with the community to inform the County’s implementation plan for HB 5019.

Coordinated Homeless Response Strategic Plan Draft Presented at HOPE Advisory Board Meeting

People sitting around a conference table hold a meeting with virtual attendees on a large TV in the background.

Benton County, the City of Corvallis, and Community Services Consortium (CSC) are part of a pilot program sponsored by Oregon State House Bill (HB) 4123 to support a coordinated response to homelessness.

As required by HB 4123, staff from the newly formed Benton County Coordinated Homelessness Response Office are preparing a five-year strategic plan to be finalized this summer.

The draft strategic plan was created in alignment with HB 4123 requirements, incorporates the twelve HOPE Policy Recommendations, and will include input from regional health assessment partners gathered at outreach events this spring and summer.

Key elements of the strategic plan include:

  • Sustainable funding for ongoing operations of the coordinated homelessness response system
  • Increasing or streamlining resources and services to people at risk of or experiencing homelessness
  • Incorporating national best practices for ending homelessness
  • Eliminating racial disparities within the service area
  • Creating pathways to permanent and supportive housing that is affordable to local populations experiencing or at risk of homelessness

Learn more

Community Progress Update – HOPE Recommendations

Find out about new community progress made toward implementing HOPE policy recommendations.

Our Spring-Summer 2023 highlights include:

See the full list on our webpage

Benton County breaks ground on new Crisis Center

A group of people pose near a large mound of dirt holding shovels and wearing construction hard hats.

The Benton County Commissioners were joined by nearly 60 dignitaries and invited guests at an event to break ground on the new Benton County Crisis Center at the site of the new facility at 240 NW 4th Street, in Corvallis.

The Benton County Crisis Center is a voluntary walk-in treatment-centered facility that provides stabilization for individuals experiencing mental health crisis, along with referrals and support for ongoing behavioral health services.

“The Crisis Center will provide immediate assistance and support to individuals experiencing mental health crises.”

Damien Sands, Behavioral Health Director

The new crisis center directly supports HOPE Recommendation #5 to improve mental health crisis response in Benton County.

Funding Opportunities for Service Providers – Summer 2023

Are you a provider of health, social, and/or homeless services?

The Benton County Coordinated Homeless Response Office’s Grant Writer & Researcher has compiled a list of upcoming funding opportunities from local, state, and national funders that relate to HOPE and homelessness work in the Benton County region.

Benton County service providers can reach out to libbi.l.winter@gmail.com with questions or to inquire about technical assistance for applying.

A row of golden shovels topped with hard hats lean against a blue sign hanging on a construction fence.

June 14, 2023 in Behavioral Health NewsCrisis Center NewsHealth NewsNews

Benton County breaks ground for new crisis center

A row of golden shovels topped with hard hats lean against a blue sign hanging on a construction fence.

The Benton County Commissioners were joined by nearly 60 dignitaries and invited guests at an event to break ground on the new Benton County Crisis Center at the site of the new facility at 240 NW 4th Street, in Corvallis. The Benton County Crisis Center is a voluntary walk-in treatment-centered facility that provides stabilization for individuals experiencing mental health crisis, along with referrals and support for ongoing behavioral health services.

The project is financed with $7.7 million in state and federal funding, which includes a two-story, 8,000 square foot building on Benton County-owned property. Benton County Health Department secured $5.45 million for the project from the Oregon state general fund through House Bill 5202. Oregon Representative Dan Rayfield helped secure $1.25 million of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds for the project, and U.S. Representative Peter DeFazio, along with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkely, helped secure $1 million from a federal appropriations bill. Gerding Builders, a Corvallis-based company is the Design-build contractor for the project. Gerding Builders has worked closely with Mahlum Architects to ensure that the design meets Benton County’s goals, budget and design to meet the unique needs of Benton County residents.

A woman stands at a podium under a large, white canopy and speaks to a crowd of people standing on a dirt lot on a sunny day.

“The Crisis Center will provide immediate assistance and support to individuals experiencing mental health crises,” shared Benton County Behavioral Health Director Damien Sands.

“It will be a safe and non-judgmental environment where people can seek help when they need it most. This prompt intervention can prevent situations from escalating and potentially save lives. The facility will be staffed to handle various mental health crises, including suicidal ideation, severe anxiety or depression, substance abuse emergencies, and psychosis. We will have trained professionals who can assess the situation, provide appropriate interventions, and stabilize individuals in crisis.”

A group of people pose near a large mound of dirt holding shovels and wearing construction hard hats.

The crisis center will be staffed by the Benton County Health Department’s behavioral health crisis team and is an expansion of existing mental health crisis services offered by the County. Services will include 24/7 walk-in and mobile crisis services, 5-7 stabilization recliners, and 5-7 respite beds. With construction starting in June of 2023, the facility is expected to open in the summer of 2024. 

The crisis center is a project of Benton County’s Justice System Improvement Program (JSIP), a multi-year effort to improve outcomes in our communities. Addressing mental health needs is a primary focus of JSIP’s vision for enhanced County programs and facilities. The crisis center may serve as a resource on calls to law enforcement that involve a mental health concern. 

Three people and a uniformed law enforcement officer stand near a pile of dirt with shovels in hand.

Crisis services are currently available from Benton County Health Department’s mental health crisis team by calling the Benton County Crisis Line at 1-888-232-7192. Benton County Health Department also offers walk-in mental health crisis counseling services for all ages. No appointment is needed. Simply stop at the front desk and ask “to see the Counselor of the Day”. The services are currently located at 557 NW Monroe Avenue, Corvallis, OR, Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.

View a video and/or photos taken at the groundbreaking ceremony. Learn more about the crisis center at https://bit.ly/BentonCoGov-CrisisCenter

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

People sitting around a conference table hold a meeting with virtual attendees on a large TV in the background.

May 25, 2023 in Health NewsHOPE NewsNews

Coordinated Homelessness Response Update: Draft Strategic Plan Presented

People sitting around a conference table hold a meeting with virtual attendees on a large TV in the background.

Benton County, the City of Corvallis, and Community Services Consortium (CSC) are part of a pilot program sponsored by Oregon State House Bill 4123 to support a coordinated response to homelessness. As required by HB 4123 (2022), staff from the newly formed Benton County Coordinated Homelessness Response Office are preparing a five-year strategic plan to be finalized this summer. The draft strategic plan was presented to the Home, Opportunity, Planning, and Equity (HOPE) Advisory Board meeting for feedback. The meeting, held Wednesday, May 24 at the Benton County Kalapuya Building in Corvallis and online, was the first hybrid format meeting for the committee since the onset of the pandemic.

View a video of the meeting.

The draft strategic plan was created in alignment with HB 4123 requirements, incorporates the twelve HOPE Policy Recommendations, and will include input from regional health assessment partners gathered at outreach events this spring and summer. Key elements of the strategic plan include:

  • Sustainable funding for ongoing operations of the coordinated homelessness response system
  • Increasing or streamlining resources and services to people at risk of or experiencing homelessness
  • Incorporating national best practices for ending homelessness
  • Eliminating racial disparities within the service area
  • Creating pathways to permanent and supportive housing that is affordable to local populations experiencing or at risk of homelessness

“We are so fortunate to have an active group of partners and community members,” shared Coordinated Homeless Response Office Program Coordinator, Julie Arena. “Well before the enactment of HB 4123, the City of Corvallis and Benton County were building the foundation for coordinated homeless response as part of a ten-year plan to address homelessness. With this strong foundation, Benton County deployed state and federal investments as they became available starting in 2020 and applied for HB 4123 funding in 2022.”

The County has leveraged state, federal, and local funds including Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES), American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and other funds to bring over $9 million in new investments to fund food, shelter, eviction prevention, and capacity for community-based organizations.

Learn more about what has already been accomplished:

Benton County Commissioner Nancy Wyse is a liaison to the HOPE Advisory Board and is pleased with the progress made by the Coordinated Homelessness Response Office so far. “Benton County is committed to using resources effectively to directly address homelessness. In addition to the City of Corvallis and Community Services Consortium, we are grateful for community members and partners who have joined with us in this vitally important work.”

Benton County is facing a significant challenge as the number of individuals experiencing homelessness continues to grow in Oregon. Recent data reveals that Benton County has the highest rent-burdened city in Oregon, with 40% of all renters paying more than 50% of their income on rent.

The HOPE Advisory Board is a joint effort between Benton County and the City of Corvallis to facilitate a comprehensive, coordinated response from the county, cities, and diverse community partners, leaders, and persons experiencing homelessness. The Board meets on the 4th Wednesday of every month from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Visit the HOPE Advisory Board webpage for information about attending a meeting or to subscribe to the HOPE News & Updates email list.

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

Various road signs that say "Know the Signs of an Overdose," over a blue background.

May 9, 2023 in Health NewsNewsPublic Health News

Benton County launches Fentanyl Aware Campaign

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Various road signs that say "Know the Signs of an Overdose," over a blue background.

May 9 is National Fentanyl Awareness Day and the Benton County Health Department, in partnership with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Corvallis Police Department, and the Benton County Board of Commissioners is launching a new campaign to help raise community awareness about the powerful synthetic opioid, fentanyl.

The County has seen increased calls to 911, emergency room visits, and even death because of recent increases in the supply and use of fentanyl in Benton County. The campaign, modeled after Lane County’s, is aimed at counteracting these negative effects by empowering the community with knowledge, tools, and resources.

“Our new campaign will provide youth, families, and community members with tools to stay safe, how to spot and respond to an overdose, and resources for treatment,” said Mara Sargent, Substance Misuse Prevention and Education Coordinator. “We’re thankful to partner with local law enforcement to offer information sessions to the community.”

As part of the Fentanyl Aware campaign, the three agencies will hold their first English information session at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 23 at the Benton County Kalapuya building located at 4500 SW Research Way in Corvallis. Plans are also underway for a Spanish session. Community members are invited to attend the session, which will include information on local crime and overdose statistics, tips for parents, how to find and use naloxone, connections to resources, and free safety tools.

Benton County will also promote this information on web and social media channels as well as through partnerships and educational opportunities with school districts and community organizations.  

To learn more and follow the campaign, visit bit.ly/BentonCoGov-FentanylAware.

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

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El Condado de Benton lanza una campaña para crear conciencia sobre el Fentanilo

El 9 de mayo es el Día Nacional de Crear Conciencia sobre el Fentanilo y el Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton, en colaboración con la Oficina del Sheriff del Condado de Benton, el Departamento de Policía de Corvallis y los Junta de Comisionados del Condado Benton, está lanzando una nueva campaña para ayudar a crear conciencia en la comunidad sobre la poderosa droga sintética, el fentanilo.

El condado ha visto un aumento de llamadas al 911, visitas a la sala de emergencias e incluso muertes debido a los recientes aumentos en el abasteciemiento y uso de fentanilo en el Condado de Benton. La campaña, inspirada en la del Condado de Lane, tiene como objetivo contrarrestar estos efectos negativos al fortalecer a la comunidad con conocimientos, herramientas y recursos.

“Nuestra nueva campaña ofrecerá a los jóvenes, a las familias y a los miembros de la comunidad, herramientas para mantenerse seguros, cómo detectar y responder a una sobredosis y recursos para el tratamiento”, dijo Mara Sargent, Coordinadora de Educación y Prevención del Uso Indebido de Drogas. “Estamos agradecidos de asociarnos con las autoridades locales para ofrecer sesiones informativas a la comunidad”.

Como parte de la campaña de concientización sobre el fentanilo, las tres agencias ofrecerán su primera sesión informativa en inglés a las 6:30 p.m. el martes 23 de mayo, en el edificio Kalapuya del Condado de Benton, ubicado en el 4500 SW Research Way en Corvallis. También se tiene planeado hacer una sesión en español. Se invita a todos los miembros de la comunidad a asistir a la sesión, que incluirá información sobre delincuencia local y estadísticas de sobredosis, consejos para padres, cómo encontrar y usar Naloxona, conexiones a recursos y herramientas de seguridad gratis.

El Condado de Benton también promoverá esta información en su sitio web y en las redes sociales, así como a través de asociaciones y oportunidades educativas con distritos escolares y organizaciones comunitarias.

Para obtener más información y seguir la campaña, visite bit.ly/BentonCoGov-Fentanilo

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El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

A drawing of a building flanked with greenery and people walking around outside.

May 1, 2023 in Behavioral Health NewsCrisis Center NewsHealth NewsNews

Benton County Health celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month with Crisis Center update

***Español a continuación***

A drawing of a building flanked with greenery and people walking around outside.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and Benton County is celebrating with a major milestone toward completing the Benton County Crisis Center.

The Benton County Crisis Center will be a voluntary walk-in treatment-centered facility which provides stabilization for those experiencing a mental health crisis, along with referrals and support for ongoing services. The crisis center is also a project of Benton County’s Justice System Improvement Program (JSIP), a multi-year effort to improve outcomes in our communities.

Benton County, along with Gerding Builders and Mahlum Architects, worked on the design for the crisis center with local partners like Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, Intercommunity Health Network, Oregon State University, and the Corvallis Police Department as part of a design committee, which also included local non-profit organizations.

“We want to thank our community partners for their participation in the design process,” said Ricky Garcia, project manager for the Benton County Crisis Center. “This has been a collaborative effort to ensure we are meeting the needs of our community and we are really happy with the final design.”

Community members can see renderings of the design at: bit.ly/BentonCoGov-CrisisCenter.

Now that the design of the new Benton County Crisis Center is complete, the construction team has started the permitting process, with services expected to begin in the summer of 2024.

“We recently received notice that the lot consolidation was approved, which is a key milestone in the permitting process, said Benton County Public Works Director, Gary Stockhoff. “We expect to begin onsite work later this spring.”

As the Benton County Health Department waits for completion of the new crisis center, the Behavioral Health team is working on policies and procedures for the new site and fine tuning their staffing model to prepare for the increased staffing need.

“We are hiring mental health crisis professionals now,” Crisis Manager, Eric Bowling said. Find more information about open positions at: co.benton.or.us/hr/page/careers.

While the crisis center won’t be operational until next summer, community members can access crisis services now at 557 NW Monroe Ave. in Corvallis, between the hours of  8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. The community can also call the 24-hour crisis hotline at 1-888-232-7192. Visit bit.ly/BentonCoGov-MentalHealthCrisisSupport to learn more.

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

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El Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton celebra el mes de crear conciencia sobre la salud mental modernizando el Centro de Crisis

Mayo es el mes de crear conciencia sobre la salud mental y el Condado de Benton está celebrando con un hecho importante hacia la finalización del Centro de Crisis del Condado de Benton.

El Centro de Crisis del Condado de Benton será un centro de tratamiento voluntario sin previa cita que brindará estabilización a quienes experimenten una crisis de salud mental, junto con referencias y apoyo para servicios continuos. El Centro de Crisis también es un proyecto del Programa de Mejoramiento del Sistema de Justicia del Condado de Benton (JSIP), un esfuerzo de varios años para mejorar los resultados en nuestras comunidades.

El Condado de Benton, junto con Gerding Builders y Mahlum Architects, trabajaron en el diseño del Centro de Crisis con socios locales como Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, Intercommunity Health Network, Oregon State University y el Departamento de Policía de Corvallis como parte de un comité de diseño, en el que también se incluyeron organizaciones locales sin fines de lucro.

“Queremos agradecer a nuestros socios comunitarios por su participación en el proceso del diseño”, dijo Ricky García, Gerente de Proyecto del Centro de Crisis del Condado de Benton. “Este ha sido un esfuerzo de colaboración para garantizar que estamos satisfaciendo las necesidades de nuestra comunidad y estamos muy contentos con el diseño final”.

Los miembros de la comunidad pueden ver representaciones del diseño en: bit.ly/BentonCoGov-CrisisCenter.

Ahora que el diseño del nuevo Centro de Crisis del Condado de Benton está completo, el equipo de construcción ha comenzado el proceso para obtener los permisos y se espera que comience a dar servicio en el verano de 2024.

“Recientemente recibimos un aviso de que se aprobó la consolidación de lotes, lo cual es un hecho clave en el proceso de obtención de permisos”, dijo el Director de Obras Públicas del Condado de Benton, Gary Stockhoff. “Esperamos comenzar el trabajo en el sitio a finales de esta primavera”.

Mientras el Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton espera que se complete el nuevo Centro de Crisis, el equipo de Salud de la Conducta está trabajando en políticas y procedimientos para el nuevo sitio, ajustando su modelo en la cantidad de empleados y preparándose para la necesidad de tener más personal.

“Estamos contratando profesionales de crisis de salud mental ahora”, dijo Eric Bowling, Gerente de Crisis. Encuentre más información sobre puestos vacantes en: co.benton.or.us/hr/page/careers.

Si bien el Centro de Crisis no estará funcionando hasta el próximo verano, los miembros de la comunidad pueden acceder a los servicios de crisis ahora en el 557 NW Monroe Ave. en Corvallis, De lunes a viernes, de las 8:00 a.m. a las 5:00 p.m. La comunidad también puede llamar a la línea directa de crisis las 24 horas al 1-888-232-7192. Visite bit.ly/BentonCoGov-MentalHealthCrisisSupport para obtener más información.

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El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

A flyer for Community Conversations featuring a graphic of diverse people with speech bubbles overhead on top of a pastel purple and green background.

April 26, 2023 in Health NewsHealthy Communities NewsNews

Regional Community Health Assessment 2022 – 2026 is now available! Benton County continues seeking community input into regional Community Health Improvement Plan

A flyer for Community Conversations featuring a graphic of diverse people with speech bubbles overhead on top of a pastel purple and green background.

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The regional Community Health Assessment (CHA) 2022 – 2026 is now available! The purpose of this assessment is to learn about the health status of the people living in Linn, Benton, and Lincoln counties and identify areas for improvement. Benton County Health Department, in collaboration with the Partnership for Community Health: Linn, Benton & Lincoln Counties, continues to share the results of the regional CHA with the community and gather input on key health issues to include in the regional community health improvement plan (CHIP). The CHIP guides how the region focuses resources that are working to improve the health of all people who live, work, learn and play in our region.

Join us to learn more about your community’s health! Help us discover health priorities for Linn, Benton, and Lincoln counties. Community meetings are occurring throughout the region. Here are Benton County upcoming community engagements:

          Saturday, April 29, 2023; Event: 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.
          Keys for the People Housing Festival
          CHA Presentation: 2:10 – 3:10 p.m. (English session)
          Corvallis Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Avenue, Corvallis

          Thursday, May 4, 2023; 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. (English session)
          Monroe Community Library, 380 N. 5th Street, Monroe

          Saturday, May 6, 2023; 11:00 – 1:00 p.m.(Spanish session)
          Garfield Elementary School, 1205 NW Garfield Avenue, Corvallis

          Wednesday, May 17, 2023; 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. (Spanish session)
          South Benton Food Pantry, 650 Orchard Street, Monroe

For more opportunities to participate in community conversations, visit: https://bit.ly/RegionalCHIP-GetInvolved.

Other ways to get involved

Attendance at a community meeting is encouraged, but not required in order to contribute to the planning process. Community members can also review the data and vote on their priorities by accessing the following links:

For inquiries or additional information email BentonHealthyCommunties@bentoncountyor.gov.

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

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¡El reporte de la Evaluación Regional de la Salud Comunitaria 2022 – 2026 ya está disponible! El Condado de Benton continúa pidiendo la opinión de la comunidad en informar el Plan Regional de Mejoramiento de la Salud Comunitaria

A flyer for Community Conversations featuring a graphic of diverse people with speech bubbles overhead on top of a pastel purple and green background.

¡El reporte de la Evaluación de Salud Comunitaria (CHA) regional 2022 – 2026 ya está disponible! El propósito de esta evaluación es conocer el estado de salud de las personas que viven en los condados de Linn, Benton y Lincoln e identificar áreas de mejoramiento. El Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton, en colaboración con la Asociación para la Salud Comunitaria: condados de Linn, Benton y Lincoln, continúa compartiendo los resultados de la evaluación regional con la comunidad y recopilando información sobre los principales problemas de salud para incluir en el Plan Regional de Mejoramiento de la Salud de la Comunidad.  Este plan dirige cómo la región enfoca los recursos para mejorar la salud de todas las personas que viven, trabajan, aprenden y juegan en nuestra región.

¡Participe para aprender más sobre la salud de su comunidad! Ayúdenos a identificar las prioridades de la salud para los condados de Linn, Benton y Lincoln. Se están llevando a cabo reuniones comunitarias en toda la región. Aquí están los próximos eventos dentro del Condado de Benton:

          Sábado, 29 de abril, 2023; Evento: 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.
          Evento comunitario Llaves para la Gentel
          Presentación de la evaluación: 2:10 – 3:10 p.m. (Sesión en inglés)
          Corvallis Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Avenue, Corvallis

          Jueves, 4 de mayo, 2023, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. (Sesión en inglés)
          Biblioteca de la Comunidad de Monroe, 380 N. 5th Street, Monroe

          Sábado 6 de mayo, 2023, 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. (Sesión en español)
          Escuela Primaria de Garfield, 1205 NW Garfield Avenue, Corvallis

          Miércoles, 17 de mayo, 2023, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.  (Sesión en español)
          Banco de Comida South Benton, 650 Orchard Street, Monroe

Para conocer más oportunidades de participar en las conversaciones comunitarias, visite: https://bit.ly/RegionalCHIP-GetInvolvedSP.

Otras formas de participar

Se invita al público a asistir a una conversación comunitaria pero no es necesaria para contribuir al proceso. Los miembros de la comunidad también pueden obtener una copia de la presentación y votar para identificar sus prioridades visitando los siguientes enlaces:

Para preguntas o información adicional email BentonHealthyCommunties@bentoncountyor.gov.

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El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

A cream and green building on a city street with green and white text that says "Crisis Services are moving! New location starting April 26, 2023: 557 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis"

April 6, 2023 in Behavioral Health NewsHealth NewsNews

Benton County Crisis Services Relocate

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A cream and green building on a city street with green and white text that says "Crisis Services are moving! New location starting April 26, 2023: 557 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis"

Benton County Mental Health Crisis Services will relocate to the Benton County Humphrey Hoyer Building at 557 NW Monroe Avenue in Corvallis on Wednesday, April 26, 2023. Services at their current location on 530 NW 27 Street will end on Tuesday, April 25, at 5:00 p.m.

The Crisis Services program has been providing walk-in crisis counseling services at the Benton County Health Services Building for over a decade. This service means that anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can show up between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and ask to “see the Counselor of the Day,” who is available to provide same-day crisis counseling services. These services will now be available in the new location near the downtown Corvallis transit center, until the program can move into its permanent home at the future Benton County Crisis Center.

“The Humphrey Hoyer building is right next to the downtown bus station and library, which means easier access for clients,” said Eric Bowling, Benton County Crisis Manager. “The temporary move will make a good home until we can move into the future crisis center where we can expand our services even further.”

Benton County is working to build a new crisis center, to be located at 240 NW 4th Street in downtown Corvallis. The project recently moved out of the design phase and into the permitting process. Benton County expects the new building to open for services in summer 2024.

The future Crisis Center will add crisis stabilization and respite services, as well as expand walk-in counseling hours to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Learn more about Benton County Mental Health Crisis Services and the future Benton County Crisis Center.                        

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

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Reubicación de los Servicios de Crisis del Condado de Benton

Los Servicios de Crisis de Salud Mental del Condado de Benton se trasladarán al Edificio Humphrey Hoyer del Condado de Benton en el 557 NW Monroe Avenue en Corvallis, el miércoles 26 de abril de 2023. Los servicios en su ubicación actual en el 530 NW 27 Street terminarán el martes 25 de abril a las 5:00 p.m.

El Programa de Servicios de Crisis ha brindado servicios de asesoramiento de crisis sin previa cita en el Edificio de Servicios de Salud del Condado de Benton durante más de una década. Este servicio significa que cualquier persona que experimente una crisis de salud mental puede presentarse entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 5:00 p.m., de lunes a viernes y solicitar “ver al consejero del día”, que está disponible para brindar servicios de consejería de crisis el mismo día. Estos servicios ahora estarán disponibles en la nueva ubicación cerca del centro de tránsito del Centro de Corvallis, hasta que el programa pueda moverse a su lugar permanente en el futuro Centro de Crisis del Condado de Benton.

“El edificio Humphrey Hoyer está justo al lado de la estación de autobuses y la biblioteca del Centro, lo que significa un acceso más fácil para los clientes”, dijo Eric Bowling, Gerente de Crisis del Condado de Benton. “La mudanza temporal será un buen lugar hasta que podamos mudarnos al futuro Centro de Crisis donde podremos expandir nuestros servicios aún más”.

El Condado de Benton está trabajando para construir un nuevo Centro de Crisis, que estará ubicado en 240 NW 4th Street en el Centro de Corvallis. El proyecto recientemente pasó de la fase de diseño al proceso de obtención de permisos. El Condado de Benton espera que el nuevo edificio abra sus servicios en el verano de 2024.

El futuro Centro de Crisis agregará servicios de estabilización de crisis y de relevo y ampliará el horario de asesoramiento sin previa cita las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana.

Para obtener más información sobre los Servicios de Crisis de Salud Mental del Condado de Benton y el futuro Centro de Crisis del Condado de Benton, visite: co.benton.or.us/health/page/crisis-services

Regístrese para recibir el boletín electrónico del Condado de Benton.

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El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

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March 31, 2023 in Health NewsHOPE News

Homeless Response News 3-31-23

HOPE Story: Amanda from Community Outreach, Inc.

“With everything that COI has done for me, including aftercare, I’m going back to college to learn to be a peer support specialist. I have my own apartment. I have the most amazing service animal. My life is good and I have the coping skills I need. It’s been the best thing that has ever happened.” 

Eight years ago, Amanda went to Community Outreach, Inc, (COI), a transformational housing program in Corvallis, after an interaction with law enforcement. She was using drugs at the time and recovering from the sudden loss of her beloved life partner. Amanda was injured in the interaction and spent time at the emergency room and intensive care units with life-threatening bullet wounds. She acknowledges her own responsibility in the interaction and recognizes that it put her on the path to healing and learning to thrive at COI.

Ty, a case manager from COI visited Amanda in the hospital. Amanda says, “If Ty hadn’t been the one that came to my hospital room, I probably wouldn’t be here today. I wouldn’t be alive.” Amanda connected with COI’s case manager because she related to him and because he met her where she was. At COI, she recovered, got sober, connected with a service animal, and found stable housing.

Community Progress Update – HOPE Recommendations

Find out about new community progress made toward implementing HOPE policy recommendations.

Some highlights include:

See the full list on our webpage

What is a Resource / Navigation Center?

“The drop-in center exists because people need to feel loved and understand that they’re cared for and have a social community that they can be a part of and feel safe.”

Allison Hobgood, executive director of the Corvallis Daytime Drop-in Center.

A resource center, also called a navigation center, is a space for providers from different social service organizations to meet with and enroll people in programs that help them improve their life stability and meet their needs. This work is in direct alignment with the Benton County HOPE Advisory Board policy recommendations.

Our community partners have continued to work hard for years to ensure these services are available to community members who need them. Read on to learn more about resource & navigation centers in Benton County:

Corvallis Daytime Drop-in Center (CDDC) is working on a plan to expand their hours and services by building a Homeless Navigation Center which will provide 24-7 shelter and crucial services to county residents who are experiencing homelessness. The Drop-in Center currently serves as a one-stop-shop access point to service providers and case management, basic needs navigation, employment resources, and more, but is limited in its current location. Expanding the Center would allow more services in a bigger space to better support. CDDC also hopes to provide a low-barrier, non-congregate emergency shelter with the additional space and resources. Watch the video above and read the news release to learn more.

The South Benton Food Pantry in Monroe has provided food assistance and connection to services for years, but the needs of the community outgrew the available space. They recently purchased the building from which they operate to expand and add more services and resources. The location is now growing to include Kepi Nak-Nak Commons, a resource center which will serve as a central hub for the South Benton community to access service providers and resources. Services include food assistance, healthcare support, housing navigation, utility assistance, education, childcare, support for victims of domestic violence, and more. Learn more at their website.

HOPE Coordinated Homeless Response Office Outreach

The Coordinated Homeless Response Office, which includes staff from Benton County, the City of Corvallis, and Community Services Consortium, is working to finalize its strategic plan for Coordinated Homeless Response in Benton County, per HB 4123 requirements.

Benton County staff, along with Commissioner Nancy Wyse, are presenting at city councils and other public meetings to educate the community about the history, current state, and future goals of coordinated homeless response. The Office is working to understand the challenges and opportunities faced by smaller and rural communities in Benton County, and looking to strengthen collaboration and partnership in those areas.

Visit the Coordinated Homeless Response Office webpage for more information.

Benton County Partners with Local Non-profit Provider for Severe Weather Sheltering

This winter, Benton County funded Faith Hope and Charity, Inc., a Corvallis based non-profit organization, to provide severe weather overflow sheltering for unhoused Benton County residents. This is for individuals who are not able to access current Benton County shelters for whatever reason. Outreach is occurring within Benton County to identify individuals in need and connect them with these services.

More information on overnight shelters, public warming centers, and other resources is available at bit.ly/BentonCountyWarmingCenters. 

You can learn more about Faith Hope and Charity at their website.

For more information, contact healthdeptcommunications@bentoncountyor.gov

Funding Opportunities for Service Providers

Are you a provider of health, social, and/or homeless services?

The Grant Writer & Researcher for the Benton County Coordinated Homeless Response Office has compiled a list of upcoming funding opportunities from local, state, and national funders that relate to HOPE and homelessness work in the Benton County region.

Benton County service providers can reach out to libbi.l.winter@gmail.com with questions or to inquire about technical assistance for applying.

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March 17, 2023 in Health NewsHealthy Communities NewsNews

The Partnership for Community Health: Linn, Benton & Lincoln Counties seeks community input into regional Community Health Improvement Plan

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In 2022, the Benton County Health Department, in collaboration with the Partnership for Community Health: Linn, Benton & Lincoln Counties, began a regional community health assessment and improvement planning process. The regional health assessment (CHA) phase of the process is now complete, and the Partnership for Community Health is ready to share the results with the community and gather input on key health issues to include in the regional community health improvement plan (CHIP). The CHIP guides how the region focuses resources that are working to improve the health of all people who live, work, learn and play in Linn, Benton, and Lincoln counties. 

The Partnership will hold two virtual community conversations to review the key health themes from the data and seek community input on priorities for the regional CHIP. 

In person community conversations will also be held for Spanish- and Arabic-speaking populations. For more opportunities to participate in community conversations, visit: https://bit.ly/RegionalCHIP-GetInvolved

Other ways to get involved

Attendance at a community conversation is encouraged, but not required to contribute to the planning process. Community members can also access a copy of the presentation and vote on their priorities by accessing the following links:

For inquiries or additional information: BentonHealthyCommunties@bentoncountyor.gov

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

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La Asociación para la Salud Comunitaria de los Condados de Linn, Benton y Lincoln piden su participación en el Plan Regional de Mejoramiento de la Salud Comunitaria

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En el 2022, el Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton, en colaboración con la Asociación para la Salud Comunitaria de los Condados de Linn, Benton y Lincoln, comenzó un proceso regional de planificación de mejora y evaluación de la salud comunitaria. La fase de la evaluación de la salud regional (CHA) ahora está completa y la Asociación para la Salud Comunitaria está lista para compartir los resultados con la comunidad y necesita ayuda en identificar los problemas de salud más importantes para incluirlos en el plan regional de mejoramiento de la salud comunitaria (CHIP). Este plan indica cómo la región enfocará los recursos se usan para mejorar la salud de todas las personas que viven, trabajan, aprenden y juegan en los condados de Linn, Benton y Lincoln.

La Asociación llevará a cabo dos conversaciones comunitarias virtuales para revisar los temas de salud más importantes en base a la información reunida y pide la participación de la comunidad para identificar las prioridades para el plan regional.

También se llevarán a cabo conversaciones comunitarias en persona para las poblaciones de habla hispana y árabe. Para conocer más oportunidades de participar en las conversaciones comunitarias, visite: https://bit.ly/RegionalCHIP-GetInvolved

Otras formas de participar

Se invita al público a asistir a una conversación comunitaria pero no es necesaria para contribuir al proceso. Los miembros de la comunidad también pueden obtener una copia de la presentación y votar para identificar sus prioridades visitando los siguientes enlaces:

Para preguntas o información adicional: BentonHealthyCommunties@bentoncountyor.gov

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El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

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