Patti Whitney-Wise, Executive Director

From headlines of budget shortfalls, to stories of families struggling to make ends meet, I'm sure you were as alarmed as I was in early February, when the state legislative session was starting. Part of my job is to share our stories and concerns with our lawmakers.

One of my hardest weeks came half way through the session, when we learned of a proposed $8.4 million cut to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). This cut would've been truly devastating. Thousands of families with children would've gone without the most basic assistance.

My colleagues and I worked hard to protect TANF, and other critical programs. We all wanted to see our safety net remain strong and responsive to the increased need in our communities and in the end, we were successful in preventing the worst cuts. 

Still, there is so much at stake right now. If we're going to help families survive and move towards job readiness as the economy improves, it'll take all of us working together.   I need your support. Though I won't be making the commute to the capitol on a daily basis (Hallelujah!), the next few months still hold much hard work and opportunity.

As strong believers in working together, my staff and I will be leading the charge for major improvements in programs during the 2013 legislative session.  This work will help end hunger in our state. It can only be done with support from donors, who believe in and commit to a better Oregon where everyone thrives.

Please join me in making a difference right now: make a secure donation of $20, $50, $100 or more today. Together, we can end hunger before it begins!