Humane Society Setting Its Own Destiny with Purchase
The Oregon Coast Humane Society has taken a major step toward expansion after the Lane County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the sale of 8.66 acres to the organization for 500 dollars on December 2. Executive Director Elizabeth Thompson told commissioners that OCHS has long outgrown its shelter on Rhododendron Drive, noting that staff currently house a dog in her office and kittens in the breakroom, underscoring the urgency for more space. The land, which OCHS has leased for 30 years, will allow the group to begin planning for a modern facility with updated animal-care standards and improved disaster preparedness. OCHS continues to expand community programs, including feeding 550 pets each month, providing emergency medical vouchers, and delivering veterinary services to 900 animals so far this year. Thompson encourages community members with fundraising or construction experience to get involved.
SNAP Benefits
The Oregon Department of Human Services says SNAP benefits are being issued on their normal schedule this month after delays in November caused by the federal shutdown. SNAP supports more than one in six Oregonians and generates up to 1.8 billion dollars in economic activity each year. Director Liesl Wendt says timely benefits are essential and urges people to protect their EBT cards by updating PINs and limiting online or out-of-state use. ODHS recently shut off and replaced more than 1,300 compromised EBT cards in the Coos Bay and North Bend area after detecting skimming devices. People who need a replacement card immediately can visit their local ODHS office.
Kotek Opts For Science
Governor Tina Kotek is expressing support after the West Coast Health Alliance reaffirmed evidence-based guidance recommending the hepatitis B birth dose and completion of the vaccine series. The Alliance’s position aligns with major medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Kotek said the group provides trusted, science-based information for families seeking guidance on vaccinations. The Governor also raised concerns about recent federal actions affecting national vaccine policy, as changes within the CDC’s advisory structure have prompted warnings from public health leaders about the potential for increased political influence over medical recommendations.
