Happy New Year from Families Connected!

UPCOMING EVENTS

To see upcoming trainings and activities check out the January Calendar!

COVID TESTING EVENT

On January 2, The Arc Lane County and Lane County Public Health will host a free COVID Testing Event for the Disability Community at 4181 E Street in Springfield. Food boxes will also be distributed to families in need.

COVID RESOURCES

The Arc Lane County is an Oregon Health Authority community-based organization, providing outreach and wraparound services for individuals and families affected by COVID. Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 and who is quarantining, as a result, can contact the CARES Center for financial assistance and other support.

COVID is taking an emotional toll on everyone. Mental and emotional health resources are available, and the Safe & Strong Helpline at 800-923-4357 (800-923-HELP) offers free, 24-7 emotional support and resource referral to anyone who needs help.

Happy New Year's Eve!

As we enter our tenth month of social distancing and our children enter their fourth month of comprehensive distance learning, people are undoubtedly experiencing COVID fatigue.

To help say "good riddance" to 2020 and ring in a fresh New Year, Families Connected will provide families with a Grateful Jar Activity.

Even in the midst of this challenging time, there are still many things for which we can be grateful. Discover your family's blessings with this fun activity!

COVID VACCINE UPDATES

There's hope on the horizon! The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) vaccinated more than 7,000 health care workers in the first week of the state’s COVID-19 immunization program. It will take time until the vaccine is widely available.

Here is V ideo about the COVID Vaccine as well as OHA's COVID-19 Vaccination Plan. For a list of possible side effects, read What to Expect After Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine.

While the vaccination process continues, it is important to wear a mask, maintain social distance, wash your hands frequently and avoid large gatherings.

TAKE EQUITY SURVEY FOR CHANCE TO WIN $50

The Oregon Consortium of Family Networks is gathering insight into how family network families across the state experience discrimination and systemic inequities. Please take the Equity Survey by Friday, January 15. All survey responders will be entered into a raffle for a $50 Walmart gift card. There will be two names drawn, and each winner will receive one $50 gift card.

OHSU NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR

TWO UCEDD PROGRAMS

Applications are now being accepted for the Advocacy and Building Community Program for youth ages 16-24 years who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities. This OHSU University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) program will include monthly group activities online, outdoor adventures and service-learning projects for transition-age youth. The application deadline is Feb. 12.

The application process for UCEDD's Summer Internship Program is also open at this time. This program provides opportunities for high school or early college students to gain experience in the disability field, develop transferable skills, and learn about various career paths in health care. Students with disabilities and students with siblings or family members with a disability are encouraged to apply. Applications must be submitted by Feb. 1.