Oregon Dept. of Human Services

Emergency Messages as of 11:00 PM, Mon. Oct 5

No information currently posted.

Subscribe to receive FlashAlert messages from Oregon Dept. of Human Services.

Manage my existing Subscription

News Release

State Launches New Medicaid In-home Services Option, Expands Choices For Support - 10/05/26

SALEM, OR  ̵  A new home-care option is being introduced for adults who qualify for Medicaid-funded in-home services and supports.

 

The new option, called Agency with Choice, was created by Oregon House Bill 4129. It is for people who are eligible for Medicaid long-term services and supports through the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA).

 

Agency with Choice provides help with managing the recruitment, required training, scheduling, and supervision of an in-home care provider including supporting individuals with their back-up care needs. Agency with Choice is one of several in-home care options now available for people eligible for Home and Community Based Services through the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD). It is also available to individuals served through OHA Behavioral Health Division’s Home and Community Based Services.

 

“Agency with Choice builds on Oregon’s commitment to honoring the preferences of older adults and people with disabilities,” said APD Director Nakeshia Knight, Ph.D. “It joins a broad continuum of long‑term care options designed to help people receive the right level of support in the way that works best for them.”

 

APD’s Agency with Choice program is for individuals who:

  • Are age 60 or older;
  • Are age 18 and older with a disability;
  • Qualify for Medicaid long-term services and supports through APD; and
  • Choose to receive these services and supports in their own home.

Individuals who are currently eligible for these services received a letter from APD describing the new option. There are no changes being made to other in-home care options.

 

OHA’s Agency with Choice option is available to individuals with mental health conditions who are eligible for Medicaid-funded in-home personal care services. Individuals of all ages can enroll in Agency with Choice if they are eligible for personal care services through the State Plan Personal Care program. Individuals age 21 and older may also enroll in Agency with Choice if they get services through the 1915(i) Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) program.

 

To qualify for 1915(i) HCBS, individuals must:

  • Be age 21 or older;
  • Have a current diagnosis of a Serious Mental Illness (SMI) as defined in OAR 410-173-0005;
  • Have the need for help in at least two instrumental Activities of Daily Living; and
  • Require the provision of one or more 1915(i) services at least monthly.

As directed by HB 4129, APD and OHA provide Agency with Choice through a contractor. GT Independence was selected through a competitive process managed by OregonBuys to provide Agency with Choice in Oregon.

 

Links to online and other resources for more information

State Launches New Medicaid In-home Services Option, Expands Choices For Support - 10/05/26

SALEM, OR  ̵  A new home-care option is being introduced for adults who qualify for Medicaid-funded in-home services and supports.

 

The new option, called Agency with Choice, was created by Oregon House Bill 4129. It is for people who are eligible for Medicaid long-term services and supports through the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA).

 

Agency with Choice provides help with managing the recruitment, required training, scheduling, and supervision of an in-home care provider including supporting individuals with their back-up care needs. Agency with Choice is one of several in-home care options now available for people eligible for Home and Community Based Services through the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD). It is also available to individuals served through OHA Behavioral Health Division’s Home and Community Based Services.

 

“Agency with Choice builds on Oregon’s commitment to honoring the preferences of older adults and people with disabilities,” said APD Director Nakeshia Knight, Ph.D. “It joins a broad continuum of long‑term care options designed to help people receive the right level of support in the way that works best for them.”

 

APD’s Agency with Choice program is for individuals who:

  • Are age 60 or older;
  • Are age 18 and older with a disability;
  • Qualify for Medicaid long-term services and supports through APD; and
  • Choose to receive these services and supports in their own home.

Individuals who are currently eligible for these services received a letter from APD describing the new option. There are no changes being made to other in-home care options.

 

OHA’s Agency with Choice option is available to individuals with mental health conditions who are eligible for Medicaid-funded in-home personal care services. Individuals of all ages can enroll in Agency with Choice if they are eligible for personal care services through the State Plan Personal Care program. Individuals age 21 and older may also enroll in Agency with Choice if they get services through the 1915(i) Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) program.

 

To qualify for 1915(i) HCBS, individuals must:

  • Be age 21 or older;
  • Have a current diagnosis of a Serious Mental Illness (SMI) as defined in OAR 410-173-0005;
  • Have the need for help in at least two instrumental Activities of Daily Living; and
  • Require the provision of one or more 1915(i) services at least monthly.

As directed by HB 4129, APD and OHA provide Agency with Choice through a contractor. GT Independence was selected through a competitive process managed by OregonBuys to provide Agency with Choice in Oregon.

 

Links to online and other resources for more information

UPDATE: Oregon Department Of Human Services Announces That Miley And Lilly Hunt Were Located On October 3, 2026 - 10/05/26

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Miley and Lilly Hunt.

 

Sometimes when a child is missing, they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

 

Report suspected child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

UPDATE: Oregon Department Of Human Services Announces That Miley And Lilly Hunt Were Located On October 3, 2026 - 10/05/26

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Miley and Lilly Hunt.

 

Sometimes when a child is missing, they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

 

Report suspected child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

Missing Child Alert – Lilly And Miley Hunt Are Missing And Are Believed To Be In Danger (Photo) - 10/02/26

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Lilly Hunt, age 10, and Miley L Hunt, age 8,  who went missing from Eugene, OR on Oct. 2, 2026. They are believed to be in danger.

 

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find the children and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see them. Lilly and Miley are suspected to be in the Eugene/Springfield area.

 

Sometimes when a child is missing, they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Due to privacy and confidentiality laws (ORS 409.225 and 419B.035) the Oregon Department of Human Services is unable to provide additional details.

 

Report suspected child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

 

Child Legal Name: Lilly Hunt

Child Preferred Name: Lilly Hunt

Age: 10

Height: 4 feet, 8 inches

Weight: 70 pounds

Hair color: brown

Eye color: brown

Specific Identifying Characteristics: NA

Law enforcement agency name and report #: EPD 26-15786

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #: 2103578

Date Missing: Oct. 2, 2026

Suspected and/or frequented location(s): Eugene/Springfield, OR

 

Child Legal Name: Miley Hunt

Child Preferred Name: Miley

Age: 8

Height: 4 feet

Weight: 40 pounds

Hair color: brown

Eye color: brown

Specific Identifying Characteristics: NA

Law enforcement agency name and report #: EPD 26-15786

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #: 2103578

Date Missing: Oct. 2, 2026

Suspected and/or frequented location(s): Eugene/Springfield, OR

Attached Media Files: Miley Hunt, left, and Lilly Hunt,

Missing Child Alert – Lilly And Miley Hunt Are Missing And Are Believed To Be In Danger (Photo) - 10/02/26

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Lilly Hunt, age 10, and Miley L Hunt, age 8,  who went missing from Eugene, OR on Oct. 2, 2026. They are believed to be in danger.

 

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find the children and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see them. Lilly and Miley are suspected to be in the Eugene/Springfield area.

 

Sometimes when a child is missing, they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Due to privacy and confidentiality laws (ORS 409.225 and 419B.035) the Oregon Department of Human Services is unable to provide additional details.

 

Report suspected child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

 

Child Legal Name: Lilly Hunt

Child Preferred Name: Lilly Hunt

Age: 10

Height: 4 feet, 8 inches

Weight: 70 pounds

Hair color: brown

Eye color: brown

Specific Identifying Characteristics: NA

Law enforcement agency name and report #: EPD 26-15786

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #: 2103578

Date Missing: Oct. 2, 2026

Suspected and/or frequented location(s): Eugene/Springfield, OR

 

Child Legal Name: Miley Hunt

Child Preferred Name: Miley

Age: 8

Height: 4 feet

Weight: 40 pounds

Hair color: brown

Eye color: brown

Specific Identifying Characteristics: NA

Law enforcement agency name and report #: EPD 26-15786

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #: 2103578

Date Missing: Oct. 2, 2026

Suspected and/or frequented location(s): Eugene/Springfield, OR

Attached Media Files: Miley Hunt, left, and Lilly Hunt,

Missing Child Alert – Amani Turner Is Missing And Is Believed To Be In Danger (Photo) - 10/02/26

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Amani Turner, age 15, who went missing from Oregon City on Sept. 28. They are believed to be in danger.

 

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Amani Turner and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see Amani.

 

Amani Turner is suspected to be in North Portland area

 

Sometimes when a child is missing, they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

 

Due to privacy and confidentiality laws (ORS 409.225 and 419B.035) the Oregon Department of Human Services is unable to provide additional details.

 

Report suspected child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

 

Child Legal Name: Amani Turner

Child Preferred Name: Amani

Pronouns*: she/her

Age: 15

Height: 5-foot-9

Weight: 230 pounds

Hair color: Black/brown

Eye color: Brown

Oregon City Police report #26-019172

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #: 2103035

Date Missing: 9/28/2026

Suspected and/or frequented location(s): North Portland

Attached Media Files: ATurnerPicture.jpg,

Missing Child Alert – Amani Turner Is Missing And Is Believed To Be In Danger (Photo) - 10/02/26

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Amani Turner, age 15, who went missing from Oregon City on Sept. 28. They are believed to be in danger.

 

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Amani Turner and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see Amani.

 

Amani Turner is suspected to be in North Portland area

 

Sometimes when a child is missing, they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

 

Due to privacy and confidentiality laws (ORS 409.225 and 419B.035) the Oregon Department of Human Services is unable to provide additional details.

 

Report suspected child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

 

Child Legal Name: Amani Turner

Child Preferred Name: Amani

Pronouns*: she/her

Age: 15

Height: 5-foot-9

Weight: 230 pounds

Hair color: Black/brown

Eye color: Brown

Oregon City Police report #26-019172

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #: 2103035

Date Missing: 9/28/2026

Suspected and/or frequented location(s): North Portland

Attached Media Files: ATurnerPicture.jpg,

Students Of Higher Education May Qualify For SNAP; Help Is Available To Understand Eligibility - 09/30/26

Media resources

Instead of conducting individual interviews for this announcement, ODHS will host a virtual media availability on Wednesday, Sept. 30, from 1:30 to 1:50 p.m. Members of the media will have an opportunity to ask questions about SNAP work or activity rules and exemptions for college students. RSVP for the media availability by emailing Sara Campos at sara.k.campos@odhs.oregon.gov.

 

An statement from the ODHS interim Oregon Eligibility Partnership Director will be available after the event: https://vimeo.com/showcase/12330638

 

A Spanish-language video summarizing the key messages will also be available on Vimeo. Spanish-language media may request interviews or submit questions in Spanish by contacting Adriana Taylor at Irma.A.Taylor@odhs.oregon.gov.

 

SALEM, Ore. — As students return to colleges and universities across Oregon this fall, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is reminding students about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

 

SNAP can help eligible students afford groceries while they pursue their education. Eligibility rules for students can be complicated, and students should not assume they do not qualify. Help is available from ODHS to understand the rules and apply.

Student eligibility

SNAP has special rules for students ages 18 through 49 who attend an institution of higher education at least half time (as defined by their school). These students are referred to as “students of higher education.” To be eligible for SNAP, students of higher education must meet at least one exemption.

Exemptions for students of higher education

In addition to regular SNAP rules, students of higher education are required to meet at least one student exemption to qualify for SNAP. The exemptions include students who:

  • Participate in a state or federally funded work-study program.
  • Work for pay an average of at least 20 hours per week.
  • Are responsible for the care of a young child or meet certain requirements as a parent attending school.
  • Receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or unemployment benefits.
  • Participate in certain employment and training programs, including SNAP Employment and Training or qualifying Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs.
  • Are enrolled in an undergraduate course of study intended to be completed in four years or less that leads to employment. This can include students beginning at a community college and planning to transfer to complete a bachelor’s degree.

Other exemptions may also apply depending on a student’s circumstances.

 

“Students are working hard to build skills, complete their education and prepare for their future careers,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, interim director of the ODHS Oregon Eligibility Program. “SNAP can help eligible students afford food while they pursue those goals. The eligibility rules can be complicated, so we encourage students who need help to reach out rather than assume they don’t qualify.”

Benefits Navigators can help students find support

Students at Oregon’s public colleges and universities can also connect with a Benefits Navigator for help identifying resources that may support their basic needs.

 

Oregon funds a Benefits Navigator at every public college and university. Navigators work alongside students to understand their needs, develop strategies and connect them with campus, community, state and federal resources.

 

During the 2025–26 school year, Benefits Navigators served more than 30,000 students statewide and made more than 45,000 referrals to campus and community resources.

Work or activity rules

The SNAP rules for students of higher education are different from the federal work requirements for adults who are required to follow Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) work rules. ABAWD work rules apply to people who are 18 through 64 and do not receive SNAP with children under the age of 14.

 

Students of any kind (including higher education) enrolled in school at least half time are exempt from the ABAWD work requirements. However, students of higher education must first meet a student exemption to receive benefits.

 

Because several rules can affect eligibility, ODHS encourages students to ask for help rather than assume they do not qualify.

How to get help

Students interested in SNAP can:

If a student was previously denied SNAP because they did not meet the higher education student eligibility requirements, they can reapply if their student status or circumstances have changed.

New Oregon SNAP data webpage

ODHS has launched a new Oregon SNAP data webpage to make current SNAP participation data easier to find. The page includes monthly statewide and county-level data on the number of people and households receiving SNAP in Oregon.

 

The page will be updated regularly to provide partners, media, public officials and the public with a single source for current, verified SNAP caseload data.

 

Learn more at Oregon SNAP data: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/data/Pages/snap-data.aspx

 

Students Of Higher Education May Qualify For SNAP; Help Is Available To Understand Eligibility - 09/30/26

Media resources

Instead of conducting individual interviews for this announcement, ODHS will host a virtual media availability on Wednesday, Sept. 30, from 1:30 to 1:50 p.m. Members of the media will have an opportunity to ask questions about SNAP work or activity rules and exemptions for college students. RSVP for the media availability by emailing Sara Campos at sara.k.campos@odhs.oregon.gov.

 

An statement from the ODHS interim Oregon Eligibility Partnership Director will be available after the event: https://vimeo.com/showcase/12330638

 

A Spanish-language video summarizing the key messages will also be available on Vimeo. Spanish-language media may request interviews or submit questions in Spanish by contacting Adriana Taylor at Irma.A.Taylor@odhs.oregon.gov.

 

SALEM, Ore. — As students return to colleges and universities across Oregon this fall, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is reminding students about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

 

SNAP can help eligible students afford groceries while they pursue their education. Eligibility rules for students can be complicated, and students should not assume they do not qualify. Help is available from ODHS to understand the rules and apply.

Student eligibility

SNAP has special rules for students ages 18 through 49 who attend an institution of higher education at least half time (as defined by their school). These students are referred to as “students of higher education.” To be eligible for SNAP, students of higher education must meet at least one exemption.

Exemptions for students of higher education

In addition to regular SNAP rules, students of higher education are required to meet at least one student exemption to qualify for SNAP. The exemptions include students who:

  • Participate in a state or federally funded work-study program.
  • Work for pay an average of at least 20 hours per week.
  • Are responsible for the care of a young child or meet certain requirements as a parent attending school.
  • Receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or unemployment benefits.
  • Participate in certain employment and training programs, including SNAP Employment and Training or qualifying Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs.
  • Are enrolled in an undergraduate course of study intended to be completed in four years or less that leads to employment. This can include students beginning at a community college and planning to transfer to complete a bachelor’s degree.

Other exemptions may also apply depending on a student’s circumstances.

 

“Students are working hard to build skills, complete their education and prepare for their future careers,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, interim director of the ODHS Oregon Eligibility Program. “SNAP can help eligible students afford food while they pursue those goals. The eligibility rules can be complicated, so we encourage students who need help to reach out rather than assume they don’t qualify.”

Benefits Navigators can help students find support

Students at Oregon’s public colleges and universities can also connect with a Benefits Navigator for help identifying resources that may support their basic needs.

 

Oregon funds a Benefits Navigator at every public college and university. Navigators work alongside students to understand their needs, develop strategies and connect them with campus, community, state and federal resources.

 

During the 2025–26 school year, Benefits Navigators served more than 30,000 students statewide and made more than 45,000 referrals to campus and community resources.

Work or activity rules

The SNAP rules for students of higher education are different from the federal work requirements for adults who are required to follow Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) work rules. ABAWD work rules apply to people who are 18 through 64 and do not receive SNAP with children under the age of 14.

 

Students of any kind (including higher education) enrolled in school at least half time are exempt from the ABAWD work requirements. However, students of higher education must first meet a student exemption to receive benefits.

 

Because several rules can affect eligibility, ODHS encourages students to ask for help rather than assume they do not qualify.

How to get help

Students interested in SNAP can:

If a student was previously denied SNAP because they did not meet the higher education student eligibility requirements, they can reapply if their student status or circumstances have changed.

New Oregon SNAP data webpage

ODHS has launched a new Oregon SNAP data webpage to make current SNAP participation data easier to find. The page includes monthly statewide and county-level data on the number of people and households receiving SNAP in Oregon.

 

The page will be updated regularly to provide partners, media, public officials and the public with a single source for current, verified SNAP caseload data.

 

Learn more at Oregon SNAP data: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/data/Pages/snap-data.aspx

 

Save The Date: Sept. 30 Media Availability On SNAP And Higher Education Students - 09/29/26

ODHS will host a virtual media availability on Wednesday, Sept. 30, from 1:30 to 1:50 p.m. to share information about SNAP eligibility for higher education students, including work or activity rules and exemptions.


A news release with more details will be issued Wednesday morning.
 

Members of the media will have an opportunity to ask questions. Instead of conducting individual interviews for this announcement, ODHS is encouraging reporters interested in the topic to attend the media availability.

To RSVP and receive the meeting link, please email sara.k.campos@odhs.oregon.gov.

 

A recorded statement from the ODHS interim Oregon Eligibility Partnership Director and a Spanish-language video summarizing the key messages will be available after the event on Vimeo. Spanish-language media may request interviews or submit questions in Spanish by contacting Adriana Taylor at Irma.A.Taylor@odhs.oregon.gov.

Save The Date: Sept. 30 Media Availability On SNAP And Higher Education Students - 09/29/26

ODHS will host a virtual media availability on Wednesday, Sept. 30, from 1:30 to 1:50 p.m. to share information about SNAP eligibility for higher education students, including work or activity rules and exemptions.


A news release with more details will be issued Wednesday morning.
 

Members of the media will have an opportunity to ask questions. Instead of conducting individual interviews for this announcement, ODHS is encouraging reporters interested in the topic to attend the media availability.

To RSVP and receive the meeting link, please email sara.k.campos@odhs.oregon.gov.

 

A recorded statement from the ODHS interim Oregon Eligibility Partnership Director and a Spanish-language video summarizing the key messages will be available after the event on Vimeo. Spanish-language media may request interviews or submit questions in Spanish by contacting Adriana Taylor at Irma.A.Taylor@odhs.oregon.gov.

Reminder To Use Summer Food Benefits Before They Expire - 09/29/26

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) wants families who received Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) to know that they have 122 days to use the funds before they expire.  

Eligible families receive $120 in benefits per child for meals. For families who automatically received Summer EBT on June 5, 2026, their benefits will expire on Oct. 04, 2026. Families who applied for benefits this year may have received benefits after June 5, 2026. Any unused EBT benefits will expire 122 days from the date they were originally issued.  

Families can use Summer EBT to buy eligible food at participating grocery stores, farmers markets, community supported agriculture farms, and farm stands. 

 

Double Up Food Bucks stretches Summer EBT benefits 

Families can also stretch their food budget with the Double Up Food Bucks program. 

Families receive $2 worth of Double Up Food Bucks coupons for every $2 of Summer EBT benefits spent on fresh fruits and vegetables.  

For example, a family who spends $20 in Summer EBT benefits at a participating farmers market can receive $20 in Double Up Food Bucks coupons to buy more eligible fruits and vegetables. 

Families are encouraged to check their Summer EBT balance and use their benefits before they expire. 

Oregon’s Summer EBT program is administered by ODHS and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE). The program served about 350,000 children this year. 

 

Other reminders for families 

  • Keep the Oregon EBT card: Summer EBT will be back in 2027. Families should keep their card to get benefits faster next year.  

  • Help with questions is available: Anyone with questions about Summer EBT may send an email to summerebtinfo@odhs.oregon.gov. The Summer EBT call center closed for the year as of 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026. 

  • Apply for 2027 benefits: Families may apply at any time for Summer EBT benefits using a paper application. Paper applications are available in 10 languages. Email your paper application to summerebtinfo@odhs.oregon.gov 

Learn more 

Visit sebt.oregon.gov for more information about Summer EBT. 

Visit Double Up Food Bucks to find participating locations and learn more about the program. 

Watch our video about Double Up Food Bucks. 

Reminder To Use Summer Food Benefits Before They Expire - 09/29/26

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) wants families who received Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) to know that they have 122 days to use the funds before they expire.  

Eligible families receive $120 in benefits per child for meals. For families who automatically received Summer EBT on June 5, 2026, their benefits will expire on Oct. 04, 2026. Families who applied for benefits this year may have received benefits after June 5, 2026. Any unused EBT benefits will expire 122 days from the date they were originally issued.  

Families can use Summer EBT to buy eligible food at participating grocery stores, farmers markets, community supported agriculture farms, and farm stands. 

 

Double Up Food Bucks stretches Summer EBT benefits 

Families can also stretch their food budget with the Double Up Food Bucks program. 

Families receive $2 worth of Double Up Food Bucks coupons for every $2 of Summer EBT benefits spent on fresh fruits and vegetables.  

For example, a family who spends $20 in Summer EBT benefits at a participating farmers market can receive $20 in Double Up Food Bucks coupons to buy more eligible fruits and vegetables. 

Families are encouraged to check their Summer EBT balance and use their benefits before they expire. 

Oregon’s Summer EBT program is administered by ODHS and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE). The program served about 350,000 children this year. 

 

Other reminders for families 

  • Keep the Oregon EBT card: Summer EBT will be back in 2027. Families should keep their card to get benefits faster next year.  

  • Help with questions is available: Anyone with questions about Summer EBT may send an email to summerebtinfo@odhs.oregon.gov. The Summer EBT call center closed for the year as of 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026. 

  • Apply for 2027 benefits: Families may apply at any time for Summer EBT benefits using a paper application. Paper applications are available in 10 languages. Email your paper application to summerebtinfo@odhs.oregon.gov 

Learn more 

Visit sebt.oregon.gov for more information about Summer EBT. 

Visit Double Up Food Bucks to find participating locations and learn more about the program. 

Watch our video about Double Up Food Bucks. 

CORRECTION: Some SNAP, TANF Recipients May Need To Provide Information By Sept. 28 To Keep Their Benefits (Photo) - 09/25/26


CORRECTION:

A total of 1,706 notices were sent beginning Sept. 16 to SNAP households that need to provide updated income information. The information below has been updated. ODHS apologizes for the error.  

 

SALEM, Ore. — As part of ongoing efforts to improve accuracy of benefits, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is asking some people who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits to provide updated income information by the end of the month.

 

ODHS began mailing notices Sept. 16. About 1,706 people will receive the notices by the end of the week. As of August 30, 2026, there are 639,261 individuals in Oregon who receive SNAP.

 

If you received a notice, please read it and respond by the deadline listed in the notice. Providing the requested information gives an ODHS eligibility worker a chance to review your case and make sure your benefits are correct.

 

If ODHS does not receive the requested information by September 28, your benefits may be reduced or your case may close, beginning with October benefits.

 

“We know SNAP rules and reporting requirements can be complicated, and receiving a notice asking for more information can be concerning,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, Oregon Eligibility Partnership interim director. “The most important thing people can do is respond so that our eligibility staff can review the case, answer questions and make sure people receive the benefits they are eligible for.”

What to do if you receive a notice

If you receive a Missing Information notice:

  • Read the notice carefully. It explains what information ODHS needs and when you need to respond.
  • Provide the requested income verification as soon as possible, by Sept. 28. If you do not respond by Sept. 28 you should still contact ODHS, a worker may be able to help.
  • Respond even if you think the information is wrong. An ODHS eligibility worker can review the information with you and help resolve differences.
  • Contact ODHS if you have questions or need help.
  • You do not need to contact your employer to respond to the notice. Send the information requested by ODHS.
  • Do not ignore the notice. If ODHS does not receive a response, SNAP and TANF benefits, if applicable, will close on the date listed in the notice.

ODHS expects to conduct additional income checks over the next 12 to 15 months. The timing of future checks is still being finalized.

Why ODHS is doing the income check

ODHS is checking income to help families receive the right amount of benefits at the right time. The check is one of many steps Oregon is taking to improve accuracy and to lower the SNAP payment error rate: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/news/pages/snap-per.aspx.

 

This check compares income reported to ODHS with earnings information available through The Work Number, an employment and income verification database.

 

Some SNAP households received a notice because the income reported to ODHS was below 130 percent of the federal poverty level, while information from The Work Number showed that the household’s income may be at or above that level. If a household also receives TANF, the notice includes information about both SNAP and TANF.

 

Receiving a notice does not automatically mean someone will lose their benefits. People who receive a notice should provide the requested income information by September 28 so ODHS can review their case and determine whether their benefits should change.

How to Get Help

You can talk with an ODHS eligibility worker if you have questions or want help understanding the notice.

  • Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075
  • Use the ODHS office finder to find a local office.

ODHS also has information online about what SNAP changes need to be reported and how to report them. The page explains different ways to report changes and includes guidance for reporting income and other household changes.

 

Learn more about reporting SNAP changes:
https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/Pages/report-snap-changes.aspx#how


People do not need to contact their employer to respond to the notice. They should submit the information requested by ODHS.

Attached Media Files: Page1OfExampleNotice.jpg,

CORRECTION: Some SNAP, TANF Recipients May Need To Provide Information By Sept. 28 To Keep Their Benefits (Photo) - 09/25/26


CORRECTION:

A total of 1,706 notices were sent beginning Sept. 16 to SNAP households that need to provide updated income information. The information below has been updated. ODHS apologizes for the error.  

 

SALEM, Ore. — As part of ongoing efforts to improve accuracy of benefits, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is asking some people who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits to provide updated income information by the end of the month.

 

ODHS began mailing notices Sept. 16. About 1,706 people will receive the notices by the end of the week. As of August 30, 2026, there are 639,261 individuals in Oregon who receive SNAP.

 

If you received a notice, please read it and respond by the deadline listed in the notice. Providing the requested information gives an ODHS eligibility worker a chance to review your case and make sure your benefits are correct.

 

If ODHS does not receive the requested information by September 28, your benefits may be reduced or your case may close, beginning with October benefits.

 

“We know SNAP rules and reporting requirements can be complicated, and receiving a notice asking for more information can be concerning,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, Oregon Eligibility Partnership interim director. “The most important thing people can do is respond so that our eligibility staff can review the case, answer questions and make sure people receive the benefits they are eligible for.”

What to do if you receive a notice

If you receive a Missing Information notice:

  • Read the notice carefully. It explains what information ODHS needs and when you need to respond.
  • Provide the requested income verification as soon as possible, by Sept. 28. If you do not respond by Sept. 28 you should still contact ODHS, a worker may be able to help.
  • Respond even if you think the information is wrong. An ODHS eligibility worker can review the information with you and help resolve differences.
  • Contact ODHS if you have questions or need help.
  • You do not need to contact your employer to respond to the notice. Send the information requested by ODHS.
  • Do not ignore the notice. If ODHS does not receive a response, SNAP and TANF benefits, if applicable, will close on the date listed in the notice.

ODHS expects to conduct additional income checks over the next 12 to 15 months. The timing of future checks is still being finalized.

Why ODHS is doing the income check

ODHS is checking income to help families receive the right amount of benefits at the right time. The check is one of many steps Oregon is taking to improve accuracy and to lower the SNAP payment error rate: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/news/pages/snap-per.aspx.

 

This check compares income reported to ODHS with earnings information available through The Work Number, an employment and income verification database.

 

Some SNAP households received a notice because the income reported to ODHS was below 130 percent of the federal poverty level, while information from The Work Number showed that the household’s income may be at or above that level. If a household also receives TANF, the notice includes information about both SNAP and TANF.

 

Receiving a notice does not automatically mean someone will lose their benefits. People who receive a notice should provide the requested income information by September 28 so ODHS can review their case and determine whether their benefits should change.

How to Get Help

You can talk with an ODHS eligibility worker if you have questions or want help understanding the notice.

  • Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075
  • Use the ODHS office finder to find a local office.

ODHS also has information online about what SNAP changes need to be reported and how to report them. The page explains different ways to report changes and includes guidance for reporting income and other household changes.

 

Learn more about reporting SNAP changes:
https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/Pages/report-snap-changes.aspx#how


People do not need to contact their employer to respond to the notice. They should submit the information requested by ODHS.

Attached Media Files: Page1OfExampleNotice.jpg,

ODHS Child Welfare Sees Results From Focus On Relative Caregiver Certification And Retention - 09/14/26

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) published its second quarter 2026 report on work under way to improve Child Welfare programs.

 

The report shows continued success in placing children entering care with relatives and retaining relative caregivers.

 

In three of the past seven months, ODHS exceeded the national average for initial relative placement. Relative placements reached 40.6% in February, 44.5% in May and 41.3% in July. The national average is 39%.

 

Research shows that children do best when they can remain with people they know and trust. Placing children with relatives as soon as possible when they enter care improves outcomes for children and can make reunification with parents easier.

 

Relative placement is just one priority area included in the quarterly report. Other measures are focused on ensuring safety and supporting families to prevent child maltreatment; improving services and results for children in foster care; ensuring a well-supported workforce and enhancing the program’s infrastructure to better serve Oregonians; and using data for accountability and to support continuous quality improvement.

 

“Stability is critical for children who have experienced trauma,” Child Welfare Interim Director Rolanda Garcia said. “We are focused on improving the way we serve relative caregivers so children can stay connected to family.”

 

ODHS launched a simplified certification for relatives in August 2025 to streamline the process of becoming a resource parent.

 

ODHS also has focused on improving resource parent retention by creating a strong support network of community partners, respite care providers and staff trainings focused on customer service. Partnerships with community agencies are particularly important for supporting relatives who may be caring for multiple grandchildren during retirement.

 

As part of its ongoing efforts to promote relative placements, Child Welfare will highlight the importance of keeping children connected to extended family during September’s Kinship Care Month.

Resources

 

Read the ODHS Child Welfare 2026 Q2 Progress Report

See all ODHS Child Welfare progress and data reports

Learn about becoming a resource (foster) parent

 

 

ODHS Child Welfare Sees Results From Focus On Relative Caregiver Certification And Retention - 09/14/26

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) published its second quarter 2026 report on work under way to improve Child Welfare programs.

 

The report shows continued success in placing children entering care with relatives and retaining relative caregivers.

 

In three of the past seven months, ODHS exceeded the national average for initial relative placement. Relative placements reached 40.6% in February, 44.5% in May and 41.3% in July. The national average is 39%.

 

Research shows that children do best when they can remain with people they know and trust. Placing children with relatives as soon as possible when they enter care improves outcomes for children and can make reunification with parents easier.

 

Relative placement is just one priority area included in the quarterly report. Other measures are focused on ensuring safety and supporting families to prevent child maltreatment; improving services and results for children in foster care; ensuring a well-supported workforce and enhancing the program’s infrastructure to better serve Oregonians; and using data for accountability and to support continuous quality improvement.

 

“Stability is critical for children who have experienced trauma,” Child Welfare Interim Director Rolanda Garcia said. “We are focused on improving the way we serve relative caregivers so children can stay connected to family.”

 

ODHS launched a simplified certification for relatives in August 2025 to streamline the process of becoming a resource parent.

 

ODHS also has focused on improving resource parent retention by creating a strong support network of community partners, respite care providers and staff trainings focused on customer service. Partnerships with community agencies are particularly important for supporting relatives who may be caring for multiple grandchildren during retirement.

 

As part of its ongoing efforts to promote relative placements, Child Welfare will highlight the importance of keeping children connected to extended family during September’s Kinship Care Month.

Resources

 

Read the ODHS Child Welfare 2026 Q2 Progress Report

See all ODHS Child Welfare progress and data reports

Learn about becoming a resource (foster) parent