PATHWorks Newsletter: October 2023
Success Stories - Employment - Finances - Asset Building - Community Resources - Housing Works Updates - Resources
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Resilience and a Positive Attitude
Lee joined the Housing Choice Voucher program in 2017 and was working a seasonal position in the Banquets department at Sunriver Resort, and she was struggling financially. She was in the process of creating a new life for herself and her two children after the end of a long-term relationship. In 2018 Lee joined the PATHWorks program with the goal of improving her finances and finding a stable living wage career. Little did Lee know that over the next 5 years on the PATHWorks program her journey would test her courage, perseverance, and reveal her incredible resilience in the face of adversity.
Shortly after joining the PATHWorks program, the home Lee was renting burned down forcing her to move. Undeterred, Lee started working on her resume and looking for new employment, but in early 2019 Lee fell and broke her elbow, which required elbow replacement surgery. She was unable to continue working banquets and took a different position at Sunriver Resort with a significant reduction in pay, which was very frustrating. Just as she was settling into her new role, Lee had to have emergency gall bladder surgery. 2019 was a tough year both physically and emotionally.
Lee was back at square one and found new employment with Sunriver Realty and thought about getting her real estate license. But then, in early 2020, Lee was diagnosed with breast cancer. Lee would have to undergo treatment and chemotherapy. She was still working part-time, however COVID resulted in her being laid off. This was a tough time for Lee, but her two amazing kids, who were both attending college at the time were there for her along the way. With their support, Lee was on her way back to health. Now feeling a little stronger, Lee decided to start volunteering with the children’s ministry at her church as a way to give back and get ready to rejoin the workforce.
Things were starting to look up and Lee was feeling positive. In the summer of 2021, Lee’s son graduated from Oregon State University, and her daughter was accepted into a master’s program at USC! However, that celebration quickly faded when Lee was diagnosed with Stage III Melanoma skin cancer. With another round of cancer treatment and chemo in her future, Lee was understandably dejected and thought about exiting the PATHWorks program. Instead of staying dejected and losing hope, Lee stuck it out and even completed her BA Degree at Cal State Fullerton online, which she had started years before. Lee stated “It’s not easy to keep moving forward when you are paralyzed by fear, especially when you know the next thing might be even worse. There were times when I might have given up if I hadn’t wanted a better life for my kids. In so many ways they saved me”.
Remember earlier that Lee was volunteering? Well, that volunteering gave Lee the confidence to accept a part-time job at St. Charles as a Guest Services host. It wasn’t easy as Lee was still receiving treatment for her Stage III Melanoma and some days were extremely exhausting. Finally, in the fall of 2022, Lee was pronounced cancer free!
Throughout all the challenges Lee faced, she maintained a positive attitude even when she was feeling down. She continued to work part-time, and her perseverance didn’t go unnoticed by St. Charles. In April of 2023, Lee was encouraged to apply for a management position. She was hired at a living wage income and with the health benefits she needed to reach her goal of financial security and self-sufficiency. Lee graduated the PATHWorks program on 07/31/2023.
Lee ends this story beautifully in her own words below. Congratulations Lee!
“If I could offer advice, it would be to find something to be thankful for every day. These days that sounds cliché, but it is the mechanism that changes your perspective away from all the things that are going wrong around you and toward the one thing (even if it’s only something you normally would take for granted) you do have. This is how you can see miracles instead of missing them”.
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Is the PATHWorks program for you?
See how this voluntary program available to Housing Choice Voucher holders can support you to achieve your goals!
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Empowering Individuals with Disabilities: The Ticket to Work Program |
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In today's fast-paced and inclusive society, empowering individuals with disabilities to pursue meaningful employment opportunities is an essential step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable workforce. The Ticket to Work Program, a federal initiative in the United States, has been playing a significant role in achieving this goal since its inception in 1999.
What is the Ticket to Work Program?
The Ticket to Work Program is an employment support initiative offered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It aims to assist individuals aged 18 to 64, who receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) due to their disabilities, in accessing services and support necessary to enter or re-enter the workforce. By offering a "ticket" to receive vocational rehabilitation, employment services, and other support, the program encourages individuals with disabilities to achieve financial independence and reduce reliance on disability benefits.
Key Components of the Program:
1. Employment Networks (ENs): ENs are organizations or service providers that partner with the SSA to offer specialized employment services tailored to the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. They assist beneficiaries in finding suitable employment, developing job skills, and providing ongoing support during the employment process.
2. Work Incentives: The Ticket to Work Program includes various work incentives that allow beneficiaries to maintain their healthcare benefits and gradually transition from disability benefits to financial independence. These incentives include extended Medicare/Medicaid coverage, trial work periods, and expedited reinstatement of benefits if employment does not work out as planned.
Participation in the Ticket to Work Program is entirely voluntary for beneficiaries receiving SSDI or SSI benefits. Once a beneficiary decides to participate, they can connect with an EN of their choice to create an Individual Work Plan (IWP) that outlines the employment goals and services needed to achieve them.
The Ticket to Work Program stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for individuals with disabilities, empowering them to pursue their career aspirations and contribute to society in meaningful ways. By combining vocational support with essential work incentives, this program is bridging the gap between disability benefits and financial independence, fostering a more inclusive and diverse workforce for all.
Click here to get started today with the Ticket to work program! |
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The Power of Bank Account Ownership: FDIC's #GetBanked
In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, having a bank account is more than just a convenience; it is a powerful tool that can significantly impact your financial stability and empower you towards economic success. Recognizing the importance of having a bank account, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) launched the " #GetBanked," campaign aiming to provide information, break down barriers and extend the benefits of banking services to all Americans.
The FDIC's #GetBanked campaign is a crucial step towards financial inclusion, addressing the issue of unbanked and underbanked individuals, who, for various reasons, lack access to traditional banking services. Owning a bank account offers numerous advantages, making it an essential aspect of personal finance management.
Benefits of owning a bank account:
- Provides a safe and secure place to store money. Unlike cash, funds deposited in a bank account are protected from theft, loss, or damage. The FDIC insures deposits up to $250,000 per account.
- Opens doors to various financial services that can enhance your financial well-being. It enables you to access convenient payment methods like checks, debit cards, and online banking such as bill pay, streamlining everyday transactions.
- You have access to other products from the bank once you have established that relationship. You can consider other financial products to help you achieve your financial goals: credit cards, auto loans, or personal loans. This, in turn, can lead to improved financial opportunities and increased purchasing power.
If this isn't reason enough, click here for more reasons to open a bank account.
FDIC's #GetBanked not only focuses on encouraging individuals to open bank accounts, but also emphasizes the importance of financial literacy. Understanding how to manage money effectively, make informed financial decisions, and build credit are vital skills that empower you to take control of your financial future. Through educational programs and resources, the #GetBanked campaign equips individuals with the knowledge needed to maximize the benefits of their bank accounts and navigate the financial landscape confidently.
Furthermore, #GetBanked promotes partnerships between financial institutions and community organizations, ensuring that banking products and services are tailored to meet the specific needs of underserved communities. This inclusivity fosters trust and engagement, creating a win-win situation for both customers and financial institutions.
Bank account ownership offers a multitude of advantages that extend far beyond the realms of simple transactions. The FDIC's #GetBanked campaign plays a pivotal role in promoting financial inclusion, empowering individuals with access to banking services, and fostering financial literacy. By embracing the benefits of bank account ownership, you can embark on a journey of financial empowerment, creating a brighter and more secure future for yourself and your families.
What are you waiting for? Open a bank account today!
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Building a Strong Foundation for a Fulfilling Life: Nurturing Personal Relationships as Assets
Have you ever noticed how everything seems a little brighter when you have more frequent human connections with friends and family? Well, that is no accident. Research shows the importance of having, and maintaining, healthy social relationships. The explosion of social media and COVID-19 have shown us that when we are more isolated, we tend to be less content and more focused on the negative. There are many barriers to socializing that we can come up with if we look for them.
During the winter in Central Oregon it can be even harder to connect with others with the shorter daylight hours. Therefore, it is critical that you remove those barriers and prioritize time to connect with friends and family or to make new in-person connections. Here are just a few of the benefits you will receive from connecting with others.
1. Reduced Stress and Anxiety:
Socializing with friends and family provides a sense of belonging and support, which can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. Sharing your feelings, experiences, and worries allows you to unburden yourself and gain a new perspective. Social interactions trigger the feel-good chemicals in your brains, promoting relaxation and lowering our stress hormone.
2. Enhanced Cognitive Function:
Regular social engagement stimulates your brain and helps maintain cognitive function as you age. Engaging in conversations, debates, and various activities challenges your mental capacities, improves your memory and problem-solving skills.
3. Increased Resilience:
Strong social connections act as a safety net during challenging times, enhancing your ability to cope with life's adversities. Knowing you have a support network of friends and family boosts your resilience allowing you to bounce back from setbacks more effectively. Social interactions provide emotional reinforcement, making you feel valued and loved, which contributes to a positive outlook on life.
4. Improved Self-Esteem & Confidence:
Positive social interactions bolster your self-esteem and self-confidence. When you feel accepted and appreciated, you develop a more positive self-perception. This newfound confidence extends beyond your social circles, positively influencing various aspects of your life, including work and personal achievements.
5. Alleviated Feelings of Loneliness:
Social isolation and loneliness have been linked to various mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. Socializing with friends and family regularly, provides a sense of connectedness which reduces feelings of loneliness and fosters a sense of purpose. By engaging in shared activities and experiences you strengthen friendships and forge lasting memories.
If you look around, you will find more opportunities than you think to make new connections. Start by making more time with family and friends even if that means mending fences first. If you have kids, connect with other parents at their school or join a club. There are many social clubs in Central Oregon and chances are there are one or two that you might enjoy.
Your relationships are a critical personal asset, so invest in yourself by nurturing your current relationships and cultivating new connections.
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National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline provides 24/7, free, confidential support, resources and referrals to any pregnant and postpartum mothers facing mental health challenges and their loved ones. The service is available via phone and text in English or Spanish.
Pregnancy and a new baby can bring a range of emotions. In fact, many women feel overwhelmed, sad, or anxious at different times during their pregnancy and even after the baby is born. For many women, these feelings go away on their own. But for some women, these emotions are more serious and may stay for months.
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National Maternal Mental Health Hotline’s counselors provide real-time emotional support, encouragement, information, and referrals. Pregnant and postpartum women can get the help and resources they need when they need it.
Are you a new parent and feeling sad, worried, overwhelmed, or concerned that you aren’t good enough? You aren’t alone. You aren’t to blame. With help, you can feel better.
Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)
To connect with counselors at the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline.
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Housing Works Office Location and Hours* |
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Redmond Main Office
405 SW 6th Street
Redmond, OR 97756
Phone) 541-923-1018
Fax) 541-923-6441
Text) 541-286-5562
Business Hours:
Mon to Thurs, 8am to 5pm
Closed Friday
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Bend Satellite Office
2017 NE Full Moon Dr. Suite #100
Bend, OR 97701
Phone) 458-281-0813
Fax) 458-281-0815
Text) 541-286-5562
Business Hours:
Tue, Wed, Thurs 9am to 4pm
Closed Monday & Friday
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Exterior doors will be locked outside of these hours. A drop box is conveniently placed on the front of each building for easy access, should you need to turn in paperwork after hours.
*Appointments with Housing Specialist are by appointment only.
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Affordable Housing Coming Near Oregon State University Cascades Campus
Housing Works will be developing 59 units of workforce housing on a 3.3-acre site across the street from the Oregon State University Cascades campus in Bend, aptly named, College View Apartments. The development will provide nicely equipped one, two, and three-bedroom units on a site on the west side of Bend where affordable housing of any type is extremely scarce. The development is also part of an innovative partnership with RootedHomes (formerly known as Kôr Community Land Trust) that will offer affordable homeownership opportunities of approximately 40 homes on an adjacent parcel. The College View development will provide easy access to transportation, employment, services, unparalleled educational opportunities, and an amazing new opportunity for Bend’s workforce families.
Funding for the development includes Local Innovative Fast Track (LIFT) and Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) from Oregon Housing and Community Services, bank financing, and an investment from Housing Works. Construction is planned to start in May 2024 and is expected to be completed by Summer 2025. As an affordable property, income restrictions will apply, and rents will be substantially below market rate. If you or someone you know is interested in living in this new community, please watch the following websites, housing-works.org and epicopenings.net for information about waiting list opening dates, eligibility and the application process. Applications are usually accepted two months prior to construction completion. |
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Housing Works’ HCV Program Partners with Thrive Central Oregon and Abilitree
In today's challenging rental markets, finding affordable housing is difficult due to high demand, low supply, and rising prices. Successful leasing requires flexibility, thorough research, and early planning. For HCV participants, the struggle to find housing is even tougher.
In 2021, Housing Works was awarded 96 Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHVs) under the American Rescue Plan. EHVs enabled collaboration between Housing Authorities, Continuums of Care (CoCs), and Victim Service Providers (VSPs) to address the vulnerable populations' need. Housing Works partnered with Thrive Central Oregon, to expedite leasing and assist EHV families. Within a year, all 96 vouchers were successfully leased.
Following EHV's success, Housing Works extended its partnership with Thrive CO to provide Housing Navigation support for HCV Waiting List applicants. Eligible candidates can directly access one-on-one housing assistance, identifying barriers and navigating funding options for screening fees, rent/utility debt, and deposits.
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Housing Works also collaborates with Abilitree to assist applicants with disabilities. Abilitree aids in eligibility, documentation, accommodations, and applicants are then refered to Thrive CO for ongoing support. |
With a proactive stance, Housing Works, Thrive CO, and Abilitree are committed to increasing voucher utilization in Central Oregon. These successful partnerships highlight the importance of shared purpose, showing that collaboration, communication, and commitment are essential for thriving in the dynamic housing landscape. |
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Get Ready! Housing Choice Voucher
Waiting List Opening In January!
The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program Waiting List will be open:
Monday, January 8th, 2024 (8 am)
through
Friday, January 12th, 2024 (5 pm)
This program is open to low-income qualified residents of Crook, Deschutes, and Jefferson counties.
Applicants must apply online during the week listed above at:
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Community partners, are you interested in a personalized training on the HCV Program and Rent Café waitlist procedures? Contact Lesly Gonzalez, HCV Director, at lgonzalez@housing-works.org to schedule by December 31, 2023.
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Security Deposit Assistance Available!
Rental security deposit assistance loans are available to Housing Choice Voucher holders and residents moving into Housing Works-owned properties managed by EPIC Property Management ONLY on a first-come, first-served basis when funding is available. These funds help individuals and families remove barriers to accessing safe affordable housing once they are selected for a rental home.
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