2013 Multnomah Food Justice Summit

Featuring a keynote by LaDonna Redmond

Oct. 18, 9am.-4pm

Oregon Convention Center, 777 N.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland

This year's summit will bring together food justice leaders, advocates, businesses and stakeholders to share information, define the phrase "food justice" and address the changing landscape and emerging needs within our local food system.

Federal government shutdown update & action

The federal government continues to be shuttered for a second week. While most food and income assistance programs will be funded through October, uncertainty looms as Congress struggles to reach agreement. This political impasse is keeping critical public structures unfunded or closed, and impacts are being felt across the nation.

At the same time, the deadline to lift the debt ceiling is fast approaching. If Congress fails to come to an agreement by October 17th, funding for SNAP, social security and thousands of other programs and services could be at risk.

More information about the government shutdown and the debt ceiling debate.

Take action: Share your story!

There is something we can do. If you have been furloughed or the shutdown has affected you or your business in another way, or if you fear losing vital benefits, please share your story and help us put a face on this issue. We will compile the stories and share them with our Congressional representatives to keep them informed about what is happening here in Oregon.

Poverty in Oregon

The U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) provides one-year estimates on income, poverty and health insurance statistics across the U.S. New data show that for six years the rates have failed to improve. The data, released on Sept. 19, stated that 15 percent of Americans live in poverty, which is largely unchanged from 2011. Poverty is 2.5 percent higher and the median income is 8.3 percent lower.

Oregon's levels of income and poverty are aligned with the national trend. Most people have not seen much if any gain since the economic downturn; 17.2 percent of Oregonians live below the poverty level, including 12.1 percent of families with children. Poverty is worse among families with very young children: 20.1 percent of families with children under age five live below the poverty level.

The median income in Oregon is $49,161, which is up by $1,585; however, this increase mainly represents households earning $100,000 or more per year. Income inequality continues to increase, including in Oregon.

SNAP reduction coming in November

In November, SNAP benefits will be reduced for all families as the stimulus boost provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) expires.

I person household: -$11.00 per month
2 person household -$20.00 per month
3 person household -$29.00 per month
4 person household -$36.00 per month

For most households, SNAP benefits last about 2-3 weeks. Even a small reduction can have a large impact on household food security. Oregonians may be able to reduce the impact by ensuring they have claimed all of their deductions. This includes dependent care costs and medical deductions for seniors and people with disabilities. Oregonians can also call 2-1-1 or visit 211Info.org to find out if they qualify for other nutrition or income assistance programs. Learn more.

Save the date: Listening Session in Lane County

Join the Oregon Hunger Task Force Listening Session in Eugene on Thursday, Nov. 14th, 9:30am - 2:00pm.

In partnership with FOOD for Lane County, the community will be invited to share their experiences with and insights about hunger and food systems, and discuss opportunities for policy improvements that will help solve hunger in Lane County and across Oregon. For more information email Robyn or call 503-595-5501 ext. 303.

Explore hunger among older adults in Coos Bay

Hunger in Oregon and the South Coast is a major challenge. We are one of the top five hungriest states for people 50 years and older. Explore health, resources, and policy solutions at the Older Oregonian Hunger Coalition (OOHC) meeting in Coos Bay.

Speakers: Bandana Shrestha, AARP Oregon, will speak about hunger among older populations; Nancy Weed, of Partners for Hunger-Free Oregon, will talk about SNAP; Stephanie Pollizi will present "Eating Healthy on a Budget"; and Christine Cole's will cover "Food Deserts in Coos and Curry Counties."

When:

October 15th, 8:00am -2:00pm

Where:

Hales Performing Arts Center, Southwestern Oregon Community College, Coos Bay.

To register: Call (541) 888-7332. Space is limited. Lunch will be served. For questions, email Christine Coles

Please bring a can of food to donate.

Thank you to three of our closest businesses

Many thanks to our partners (and neighbors!) Pacific Pie Company, Eastside Distilling and Portland Roasting Coffee for hosting a traditional Aussie brunch on Sept. 22 benefiting Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon.

These local businesses are committed to supporting efforts to end hunger in Oregon; we ask you consider supporting them in return!