Latest Questions and Resources for COVID-19

Senator Wagner
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The more seriously people take this now → the more hospitalizations will be avoided → the easier it will be for us to handle those hospitalizations → the more lives will be saved → the sooner we’ll be able to return to normal lives.

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State Response

What is the Oregon legislature doing to help families and businesses?

I think I may have COVID-19, but I'm not sure. Where should I go for health information?

I've lost my job - what should I do now?

How can I help?


Federal Response

What does the federal legislation do? How will it help me and my family?

  • US Senator Ron Wyden's press release summarizes the recently passed "CARES Act" - a $2 trillion stimulus package. The House still needs to pass the bill and then the President needs to sign it. I'll send along more information once it is available.
  • For a rough estimate of the assistance you might receive directly from the federal government, visit this calculator.
  • Information on the previously passed coronavirus legislation is available at this link.

Local Response

Are there resources for parents to keep kids engaged and learning at home?

How can I help local organizations?


It's Census Time!

Please take the time to fill out your census form. Accurate census counts are extremely important for Oregon to receive a fair share of federal funding and representation in Congress. Click the picture below to learn more.

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Self-Care During These Difficult Days

Mental Health Resources

If you or a loved one are experiencing anxiety or mental health challenges during this unprecedented time, there are many people waiting and wanting to help you. 

NAMI Oregon has developed a Coronavirus Information and Resources Guide, which is a downloadable PDF document linked here.

They will be answering calls and emails on weekdays between 9 am and 5 pm at 503-230-8009, or toll free at 800-343-6264. They will do their best to help callers navigate local resources given current circumstances.

LINES FOR LIFE (https://www.linesforlife.org): Suicide prevention organization with specific resources for youth, military personnel and their families, and those affected by substance abuse problems. Open not only to those in crisis but also to anyone concerned about a family member or loved one. Call 800-273-8255 or text “273TALK” to 839863.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has also provided a helpful list of ways to diminish anxiety and reduce stress:

  1. Separate what is in your control from what is notThere are things you can do, and it’s helpful to focus on those.
  2. Do what helps you feel a sense of safety. This will be different for everyone, and it’s important not to compare yourself to others. 
  3. Get outside in nature–even if you are avoiding crowds. Exercise helps both your physical and mental health.
  4. Challenge yourself to stay in the present. Notice the sights, sounds, tastes and other sensory experiences in your immediate moment and name them. Engaging in mindfulness activities is one way to help stay grounded when things feel beyond your control.
  5. Stay connected and reach out if you need more support. Talk to trusted friends about what you are feeling.

 


Sharing Stories of Community Resilience

I would like to share your stories of our communities working together to get through the coronavirus crisis. I know that there are so many stories of people helping one another to be resilient in these challenging times. Let's amplify these moments of solidarity, build hope, and get ready for the spring forward once this pandemic has passed.

Take care and be well,

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State Senator Rob Wagner

email: Sen.RobWagner@OregonLegislature.gov I phone: 503-986-1719
address: 900 Court St NE, S-215, Salem, OR, 97301
website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/wagner