President Biden has signed the COVID-19 relief bill, and thanks to strong advocacy, The Arc is thrilled the new COVID-19 Response Legislation finally recognizes the urgent needs of people with disabilities.

With stimulus checks coming soon, now is a great time to set up an ABLE account that allows people with disabilities to save money without impacting their benefits. Take the Saving with Oregon ABLE Webinar tonight. If you cannot attend this evening's training, The Arc Lane County has two employees certified in future planning. Contact either Sherri or Nancy for help.

The Arc Lane County's Community Connectors Program has helped match more than 60 children and youth who experience disabilities with skilled direct support professionals (DSPs).

Single parent Kaillie Sisk has faced many hardships during the pandemic, but her son Jesse is thriving thanks to the consistency provided by his DSPs. Read how Jesse is gaining new skills thanks to the reliable professionals supporting him.

Kaillie and Jesse's story demonstrates the important role DSPs play in the lives of people who experience disabilities. Read this GO! Bulletin to learn more about the legislative priority to increase DSP wages and then contact your Oregon state legislators and ask them to support House Bill 2964.

Familias en Conexión, part of The Arc Lane County's family network, has started distributing the iPads, which will allow parents to attend virtual parent trainings and connect with one another in a supportive environment. For more information about Familias en Conexión or to get connected with this group, contact Edith.

International Paper has donated $10K to the Arc Park, an inclusive and accessible play space being built in Springfield. The generous donation will be used towards the first phase of the park, which includes the amphitheater and community gathering space.

Exciting news! Rosboro, Banner Bank, Industrial Source and Dr. Dennis Dunne have all committed to sponsoring the 2nd annual Play Your Part Auction on August 14.

You, too, can help us build the Arc Park! The Arc is accepting donations for exciting silent and live auction packages. Contact Laura if you can help. Businesses can also benefit by sponsoring the event. Contact Jo Ann to learn more about these rewarding opportunities.

The Office of Developmental Disabilities Services has created a podcast about people with intellectual and disabilities and their support staff receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Watch the podcast to get more information.

Also check out these resources from the Oregon Health Authority: Benefits of Getting Vaccinated and COVID Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions.

In addition, tune into a webinar on March 30 to receive more COVID-19 Vaccine Information from an epidemiologist with the Oregon Health Authority.

The CARES Center provided 4,254 children and adults (or 1,045 households) with food and other resources during the month of February.

The need is great in our community. Specifically, the CARES Center is in need of diapers in all sizes, baby wipes and formula to help local families. Contact Edith if you can make a donation to help local babies and children.

In response to COVID-19, eligible Oregonians can apply for healthcare coverage in a special enrollment period.

To apply, visit the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace and submit an application by the May 15 deadline. Visitors may also find free, local help to complete the application process.