Dear Neighbors and Community Members,
Last Saturday, I joined hundreds in Hillsboro for a "No Kings" event. It was a highlight of my week to see our community come together, peaceful and united, supporting the core values of our democracy. I stood alongside family, neighbors, and strangers to say "enough is enough." I am deeply concerned by federal attacks on our immigrant communities, essential services, and institutional norms. We will not accept the erosion of our rights and freedoms. This event was a powerful reminder of our community's resilience and strength when we show up for one another.
In this newsletter, you'll find:
- An update on possible delays to SNAP benefits
- Recent highlights from Oregon's congressional delegation
- News from AG Rayfield on the National Guard
- A recap of recent events and community gatherings
- Upcoming activities and opportunities in Washington County
 
❗Possible Delay of November SNAP Benefits❗
Resources:
Oregon Food Bank's Food Finder
State Funded Free Food Events
Thank you to Sen. Lisa Reynolds and her team for assembling this graphic.
On October 20, Governor Kotek announced that if the federal government shutdown continues, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) may be forced to delay issuing November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
We know this is difficult news, and many Oregonians are understandably worried about how a shutdown could affect food assistance. This office and ODHS are committed to keeping everyone informed as the situation evolves and to getting benefits out as quickly as possible once it’s allowed.
What’s happening now
On October 10, the Trump administration notified states that they should not issue November SNAP benefits until further notice. In response, Oregon has paused benefit issuance until federal authorities confirm that the shutdown has ended.
If the shutdown ends by the evening of October 31, ODHS can issue November benefits on time. If it continues beyond that date, benefit distribution will be delayed. This type of delay has never happened before.
For the fastest updates, SNAP participants are encouraged to sign up for a ONE Online account or download the Oregon ONE Mobile app available in the App Store and Google Play.
How to prepare
While we wait for more information, there are a few steps SNAP participants can take to prepare:
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Check your EBT balance. Any unused SNAP benefits will still be available after November 1, 2025.
- Know where to find emergency food. If you need immediate assistance, local food pantries and community partners can help.
- Stay current with your SNAP case. Complete renewals on time and report any changes to ODHS.
- Follow ODHS channels. Updates will be shared promptly through social media, websites, and community partners.
We’re in this together. Let our office know how we can support you or your loved ones.
 Oregon's Congressional Delegation Taking a Stand
Amidst a challenging federal landscape and an ongoing government shutdown, our Oregon delegation is showing up for us in Congress. While President Trump and Congressional Republicans are threatening SNAP benefits, Democrats are ready to work and find a pathway to re-open the government without compromising healthcare access for millions of Americans.
Senator Wyden continues to lead on demanding the release of the Epstein files and providing the public with transparency on this issue. Senator Merkley set a record with his 22 hour and 37 minute speech on the Senate Floor this week, delivering the third longest Senate floor speech in modern history and the longest ever by an Oregonian. He used this time to bring attention to federal overreach and threats to our democracy and to highlight that Democrats are showing up to the Capitol and ready to speed up a resolution of the shutdown. Click below to watch some of his remarks.
Across Oregon and virtually, our congressional leaders are holding town halls and meetings to hear from Oregonians. Representing Western Washington County, Congresswoman Bonamici offers frequent opportunities to weigh in on issues that matter to you. You can visit her events calendar here.
Oregon DOJ Updates on National Guard Deployment
President Trump hasn't let up on his efforts to deploy National Guard troops into Portland. Attorney General Dan Rayfield and his team at the Oregon Department of Justice are working hard to uphold our Constitutional protections and enforce the rule of law. This situation is evolving quickly, but AG Rayfield continues to share timely updates on social media. To learn more about the legal timeline and read about the most recent case developments, visit @agrayfield on Instagram or click below.
Connecting with Adelante Mujeres
This week, I had the opportunity to visit Adelante Mujeres' office in Forest Grove and meet with their leadership team. This organization serves our community by working to uplift and empower Latine women through programming spanning from early childhood and youth services to health promotion to economic development. Adelante Mujeres serves more than 22,000 people in and around Washington County, Oregon each year. Our discussion centered around how we can work together to meet the needs and protect the rights of our community members. Thank you to the staff at Adelante Mujeres for hosting this conversation.
The final Adelante Mujeres Farmers Market of the season is coming up next Wednesday in Forest Grove. Don't miss out on one last chance to shop local and support small businesses in our community!
Our Community Showing Up for Our Rights
"No Kings" in Hillsboro and Forest Grove
This Saturday, I was proud to attend the "No Kings" Rally in Hillsboro, where hundreds of community members peacefully gathered in support of democracy and unity. As the federal government attempted to send militarized agents into our communities, we stood together and exercised our First Amendment right to non-violent protest.
Millions of people from around the world joined these demonstrations to show up for justice, due process, and anti-authoritarianism. In Oregon, protests spanned from Forest Grove, to Portland, to Bend. When we see attempts to whittle away at the democratic processes that give us all a voice, we have to stand together and speak out.
Celebrating Safe Streets with The Street Trust:
Safe Routes to Schools, Great Streets, and Multimodal Accessibility
Last week, I attended The Street Trust's annual Alice Awards, where I was honored to receive the 2025 Great Streets Champion Award. For several years, I have worked to build and improve the Great Streets funding program, which invests in creating "complete streets" in our communities. The program addresses multiple needs within a single project to improve safety, equity, and climate outcomes. These projects are focused on state highways that operate as main streets and other corridors where top priority multimodal transportation needs intersect.
I also want to congratulate my fellow honoree, Representative Mark Gamba, who was presented the Alice Award. I appreciate Rep. Gamba's partnership on advancing our multimodal transportation goals!
Cornelius' Itzel Sayago Wins LOC Civic Education Award
Congratulations to City of Cornelius Communications & Community Engagement Manager Itzel Sayago! Itzel received the Civic Education Award at the League of Oregon Cities’ (LOC) 100th Annual Conference in Portland. The award recognizes educators who have promoted local government education in Oregon schools. After years of inactivity, Itzel has revived the Cornelius Youth Advisory Council, growing it from zero members to more than 15. She created a structured, mission driven program that provides a rare opportunity for youth to engage directly with local government officials, community organizations, and civic leaders. Her vision, dedication, and innovative leadership have created a program that will continue to benefit the city for years to come.
 
Legislative Fiscal Office Budget Highlights Report
The Legislative Fiscal Office has prepared a summary of 2025-27 Budget Highlights. Inside, you'll find information on the legislatively adopted budget; program area and agency budget changes; the Emergency Fund; state bonding and capital construction; fee changes; budget notes; and information on other legislative actions affecting the budget for the 2025-27 biennium. Click the image below to read the report.
 
Know Your Rights Training in Washington County
Please join this Know Your Rights training in Washington County on October 27th at 6 PM. The event location will be sent by email to community members who RSVP.
This is an opportunity to hear from elected officials and community organizations about immigration policy, available resources, and everything you need to know about your rights when dealing with ICE and other Federal Law Enforcement.
If you are need of accommodations or translation services, please share that on the form.
WHEN: Monday, October 27th at 6 pm
WHERE: RSVP for location
OPB Film Screening: Uncovering Boarding Schools
Pacific University and the Indigenous Student Alliance has partnered with OPB to bring the film "Uncovering Boarding Schools: Stories of resistance and resilience" to campus. Follow the journey of Klamath Tribes member Gabriann "Abby" Hall as she uncovers her family's experiences in Native American boarding schools, from the first generation forced to live on a reservation to the present.
This new film from OPB's "Oregon Experience" joins Abby on a personal journey as she encounters hidden histories, fractured families and a legacy of resilience.
A moderated panel discussion with the producer Kami Horton will follow.
Tickets are free, but registration is required.
WHEN: October 28th at 6 pm
WHERE: Taylor Meade Performing Arts Center
Forest Grove High School Veterans Day Assembly
Forest Grove High School will host their annual Veterans Day assembly in the gym. Veterans and their guests are welcome to join. FGHS asks that guests park and enter through the Basinski Center to sign-in upon arrival.
WHEN: Thursday, November 6th from 9:30-10:50 am
WHERE: Forest Grove High School Gym
Día de los Muertos Celebration with Huehca Omeyocan
Come together and learn more about Día de los Muertos, its importance and Indigenous origins. Highlights include a special film screening, interactive discussion, and dance & drumming showcase.
This is a free event – no tickets required.
WHEN: Tuesday, November 4th from 5-8 pm
WHERE: Walters Cultural Arts Center
My office has compiled a list of resources for our community. You can click on the images below to open a document with the relevant links. If you know of a resource that should be included here, or you need a resource and are having trouble finding the information you need, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office at rep.susanmclain@oregonlegislature.gov.
EDUCATION RESOURCES
Click here, or on the image to the right for a list of Education-related resources. This includes links to the Forest Grove and Hillsboro School Districts, the Oregon and US Departments of Education, information on how to pay for college, student lunch programs, and much more!
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WILDFIRE-RELATED RESOURCES
Click here, or on the image to the right for important resources related to wildfire prevention and recovery. This list includes links to current fire restrictions and recreation site status maps, the Oregon Department of Forestry's fire prevention tip page, and important resources for wildfire victims.
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RESOURCES FOR OUR VETERANS
Click here, or on the image to the right for a list of important resources for Veterans, including links and phone numbers to the various divisions of the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs, local Washington County assistance, supportive and community-based groups like the American Legion, and mental health resources.
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STATE & LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Click here, or on the image to the right for links to important local and state government pages, including the Hillsboro, Forest Grove, and Cornelius city government pages. You can also access the Oregon Legislature's page, and other important state agency sites, like the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Unemployment Department, and the Oregon Health Authority.
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Yours truly,
 Representative Susan McLain
House District 29
email: Rep.SusanMcLain@oregonlegislature.gov I phone: 503-986-1429
address: 900 Court St NE, H-493, Salem, OR 97301
website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/mclain
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