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Date: Nov. 20, 2025

Contact: Communications.odhs@odhs.oregon.gov

Message from the Director

Partners and community members, I am honored that yesterday afternoon the Senate confirmed me as the next director of the Oregon Department of Human Services.   I want to thank Governor Kotek and her team for my nomination and support through the confirmation process.   I also want to thank my family, friends and colleagues that helped me in countless ways over the last few weeks and many years that led up to this important moment in my life. I am deeply grateful.   I am excited for this challenge and ready to hit the ground running. Those who know me know I don’t dwell much on the past but relish the opportunity to lead into the future. I look forward to working with anyone who still has concerns about my leadership, and I have been bolstered and challenged by hundreds of partners, staff, Tribal officials and leaders who have shared their feedback and told me their stories over the last few months. I am ready to channel their voice for change and accountability at ODHS. No matter what role I have had, or will have, I will always center the voices of the people.   In the coming days I will roll out a 100-day plan informed by Governor Kotek and the hundreds of people who have told me what this agency needs in this moment and for years to come. I will also roll out 100-day goals for my executive leadership team. My tenure will be marked by action, transparency, communication, and team work. Because of that ODHS will be more effective, responsive and inclusive for individuals and communities.  As you know, we have big challenges to overcome – some we know about and some we don’t. I am ready to meet this moment and lead. I have a committed team at my side. I am optimistic we can handle anything.   I said in my speech to the Senate rules committee that this is ultimately not about me. It is about us coming together to build a stronger future for Oregon. I feel that now more than ever. I look forward to coming to your community as we forge deeper connections.   I truly cannot do it without you and cannot wait to continue our work together.  Liesl

Webinar follow-up: Nov. 18 Forward Together Oregon

Baby formula recalled due to risk of infant botulism

SNAP Recertification process remains the same

We are hearing from people who are worried they need to reapply for SNAP right now. Please reassure customers that nothing about the SNAP recertification process has changed in Oregon. People should keep following their normal reporting and renewal schedule unless we contact them directly.

What you should know

• Most people renew every 12 months and complete a 6-month report.
• Older adults and people with disabilities who have no earned income renew every 24 months and complete a 12-month report.
• Some people may be asked to take part in routine quality-control reviews or may need to report changes in income or work hours.
• These steps are all part of the regular SNAP process.

Why nothing is changing

SNAP eligibility rules come from federal law.

States cannot shorten certification periods or make people reapply early unless there is information showing they may no longer be eligible. Any change to these rules would require official USDA guidance, and Oregon has not received any such instructions.

The federal government shutdown has ended and funding for SNAP has been restored. Oregon is now issuing SNAP benefits on the normal schedule.

What customers can do

People can check their certification dates by:

• Logging into their ONE Online Account or ONE Mobile App
• Calling the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075
• Contacting their local ODHS office

“An amazing opportunity” — How Vocational Rehabilitation helps students step into their futures

For two Medford students, a dream of becoming cosmetologists is becoming a reality—thanks to a partnership among Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), South Medford High School and Imani Institute of Cosmetology.

State program offers free help, fraud prevention tips for Medicare Open Enrollment

Medicare Open Enrollment for 2026 plans began Oct. 15 and remains open through Dec. 7, 2025. This is the time when people with Medicare can review their current coverage and make changes for the upcoming year. Medicare beneficiaries who would like to discuss their Medicare options can receive free, confidential help from the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) including help with comparing and selecting new Medicare plans.

Protect your EBT card benefits

Electronic theft of benefits from Oregon EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards is on the rise. Criminals use methods like skimming devices to steal your card number and personal identification number (PIN). Once they have your information, they can steal your food and cash benefits. If your benefits have been stolen through skimming, phishing or another form of electronic theft, cancel your card immediately. 

It's the time of year for gratitude, connection, and sharing a meal - but it can be stressful if you don't have the means to celebrate. If you or someone you know could use a little help this Thanksgiving: 🍗 Visit https://211info.org, enter your zip code, and search for either "Thanksgiving meals" or "Thanksgiving baskets" to find programs near you; 🥧 Or call 2-1-1 to speak to someone who can tell you about local resources. If you call or search the 211info website but don’t find the help you need, check back often for new programs and services throughout the holiday season. Resource lists are updated daily. You can learn more about 211info’s winter holiday supports here  Know of Thanksgiving or other holiday resources in your community that aren’t listed with 211info? Email support@211info.org so they can get the word out!