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 Welcome to the Health Promotion & Prevention Newsletter, released every two months by Marion County's Health Promotion & Prevention Team! In this newsletter, our team shares information, tips, news, and updates on community work being done to promote health and prevent disease in Marion County.
Help us spread awareness by sharing this newsletter with your friends and colleagues!
July 9-12 - Marion County Fair
It's summer and the Marion County Fair is almost here! Made in Marion is all about celebration. Join us for live music, fun rides, and great food! https://marioncountyfair.fun/
Image of Marion County Fair logo
July 25 - Heat Awareness Resource Fair
Beat the heat and protect your home at the Heat Awareness and Resource Fair! Join us for a fun, informative day packed withl tools to keep your family cool. Discover smart cooling ideas, sign up for a free home energy assessment, and learn about the Heat Watch Campaign to map temperatures right in your neighborhood. We will have free giveaways, useful community resources, and plenty of fun activities for the kids. Come out, connect with neighbors, and build a more resilient community together!
Image of heat resource fair
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Have you ever dreamt of being a scientist, even just for one day? Well, now is your chance! We need "Street Heat Scientists" to help capture extreme heat in neighborhoods across Salem and Marion County. This once in a lifetime opportunity is the first step to improving family and community heat resilience!
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What you will do: On Saturday, July 25, you will be given a heat sensor to attach to your car window. As a driver or navigator, you will drive a morning, afternoon, and evening route to capture thousands of data points. This will help our community understand the heat burden of cities, neighborhoods, parks, and streets. Easy, right?
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What you will get: Volunteer scientists will receive a training, Heat Watch magnet, gift card, and certificate for their assistance.
August 8 - Englewood Forest Festival
You don't want to miss this free local festival celebrating the arts, nature, and community in the Englewood Park in Salem. This family-friendly event features music, environmental non-profit organizations, and live performances!
 Flyer with images of Englewood Forest Festival
 Image of 988 resources
Check out these additional health promotion trainings and educational opportunities:
Know of another organization that provides great trainings? Share them with us at MCHDPrevention@co.marion.or.us.
We are excited to announce new 988 Oregon materials! These free materials are available in both English and Spanish and include:
To request materials, email Claire Coffey at claire@coateskokes.com and let her know what you need.
You can also download additional materials in English and Spanish.
Written by Diana Dickey, Substance Use Prevention Coordinator at Marion County Health and Human Services
Image of kratom leaf
Kratom is a plant that people use to self-treat pain or as a stimulant. Kratom is sometimes called 7-hydroxy or 7-OH. 7-OH is a strong chemical compound in kratom. It is often sold in convenience stores as powder, capsules, and beverages. It is important to read labels because taking kratom or 7-OH comes with real risks.
#1. Kratom, including 7-OH, has not been approved by the FDA
There is no approved FDA (Food and Drug Administration) medical use for kratom.
#2. Kratom can affect babies during pregnancy.
When a pregnant person uses kratom or 7-OH, the baby may be born with symptoms of withdrawal and need treatment.
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#3. Kratom has serious side effects.
Some side effects of kratom and 7-OH are:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Liver damage
- Constipation
- High blood pressure
- Trouble breathing
Use of kratom and 7-OH can lead to addiction similar to opioids. Kratom and 7-OH can interact with other medications and lead to serious health problems.
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#4. Kratom can be contaminated.
Kratom can sometimes be mixed with other harmful substances, including fentanyl and added 7-hydroxy. Kratom can be contaminated with heavy metals or harmful germs such as salmonella. Salmonella poisoning can be fatal.
#5. Kratom and 7-Oh are banned in many U.S. states because of serious health risks.
If you or someone you know needs help with substance use, including kratom and 7-OH, call SAMHSA’s Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 or TTY: 1-800-487-4889.
Learn more about kratom: NIDA.NIH.GOV
Sources: nida.nih.gov/research-topics/kratom; mayoclinic.org; www.fda.gov; www.dea.gov
FDA and Kratom Retrieved 8/14/24 from FDA Public Health Focus FDA and Kratom
Marion County Health & Human Services wants you to stay safe and healthy this summer.
Stay cool. Stay hydrated. Stay informed. Visit Heat.MCHealthy.Net
Written by Michael Keuler, Environmental Health Resiliency Coordinator at Marion County Health and Human Services
High summer temperatures are upon us! Temperatures above 90°F can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Here are a few tips to help you stay cool indoors and outdoors when the temperature approaches 90°F.
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When outdoors: Wear light clothing, take frequent breaks in the shade or in cool spaces, stay hydrated, and limit direct sunlight. If you visit a river or stream to cool down, make sure kids a wear life jacket even if they can swim. Download the NIOSH Heat Index App for current risk levels, tips, symptoms, and first aid information: osha.gov/heat/heat-app
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When indoors: Seek cool air-conditioned spaces, such as libraries and malls. Even an hour of cooling down can help your body avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If your home is too hot, consider a FREE Home Energy Assessment.
Need help? Visit 211info.org or dial 2-1-1 to connect with local resources and services.
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Additional resources to keep your family safe:
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Home energy upgrades and savings: Cooling, air purification, and energy discounts for homeowners and renters of all incomes are available. If your home gets too hot, don’t wait! Schedule a FREE Home Energy Assessment from one of three non-profit organizations serving our region:
Stay cool. Stay hydrated. Stay informed.
Written by, Kelly Martin, Mental Health Promotion Program Coordinator at Marion County Health and Human Services
A group of people placing their hands together, symbolizing social connectedness
We often hear about the importance of healthy eating and regular exercise, but one habit that doesn't get enough attention is social connection.
Social connection refers to the relationships we have with others that provide a sense of belonging, support, and community. Humans are wired for connection, and maintaining meaningful relationships can have a powerful impact on our overall well-being.
Research shows that people who are socially connected may have a lower risk of:
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- Dementia
- Depression and anxiety
Ways to Build Social Connection This Summer
- Spending time in nature with family or friends
- Volunteering in your community
- Reconnecting with friends or loved ones you haven't spoken with in a while
- Joining a group centered on an activity you enjoy, such as hiking, gardening, or cooking
- Visiting your local library and attending community events
- Participating in a community garden
- Seeking professional support if you are struggling with loneliness or isolation
To learn more about the benefits of social connection, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , https://www.cdc.gov/social-connectedness/about/index.html
We are grateful for the members of the Mid-Valley Suicide Prevention Coalition's Social Connection Work Group, who have been meeting to develop ideas and initiatives that strengthen social connection throughout our community. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities and events!
Written by Marie Little, Youth Coordinator at Marion County Health and Human Services
Did you know there's a local organization dedicated to helping our youngest children thrive long before they step into kindergarten?
Supporting Young Children and Families
The Marion Polk Early Learning Hub (MPELH) has been serving families in Marion and Polk counties for more than a decade, connecting children from birth to age five with resources that help them grow, learn, and succeed. Their mission goes far beyond teaching letters and numbers. The Hub supports the whole child by promoting literacy, social-emotional development, physical and dental health, safe environments, and strong family connections.
One of MPELH's most beloved programs is the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Through this incredible program, children from birth to age five receive a free, high-quality book delivered to their mailbox every month. Imagine your child's excitement when they receive a new book addressed just to them! It's a wonderful way to inspire a love of reading while creating special family moments that support early learning.
If you have a child under age five, enrolling is easy. Visit https://imaginationlibrary.com/or learn more through the Marion Polk Early Learning Hub at https://parentinghub.org/.
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Connecting Families to Resources
The Hub also helps families find free, high-quality preschool programs through its Coordinated Enrollment system, making it easier to navigate available options for three- and four-year-olds. Instead of wondering where to start, families have a trusted partner to help guide them.
MPELH works hand-in-hand with community organizations, schools, and service providers throughout Marion and Polk counties to ensure families can access the support they need. Their partnerships offer parenting education, kindergarten readiness activities, social-emotional learning resources, and health and wellness programs in both English and Spanish.
Safety is another important part of the Hub's work. The Hub partners with local organizations to offer car seat clinics where families can receive affordable car seats and have them installed correctly by trained professionals. Families can also learn about safe sleep practices to help keep infants safe.
Building Stronger Communities Together
Perhaps what makes the MPELH so special is its strengths-based approach. Rather than focusing on challenges, the staff work alongside families, celebrating what's already working while connecting them with resources that help children flourish.
Whether you're a parent, grandparent, caregiver, or know a family with young children, the Marion Polk Early Learning Hub offers resources that help children thrive. Every day, the Hub is making a difference, one child, one family, and one book at a time.
To learn more, find day care, explore available programs, or enroll your child in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, visit www.parentinghub.org or www.imaginationlibrary.com. You can also follow the Marion Polk Early Learning Hub on social media for upcoming events, parenting resources, and family activities happening throughout our community.
Written by Conor Foley, Chronic Disease Prevention Program Coordinator at Marion County Health and Human Services
Washington County’s “Flavor Ban” Upheld by Oregon Supreme Court
On May 7, 2026, the Oregon Supreme Court upheld Washington County’s “flavor ban.” The flavor ban will ban the sale of flavored tobacco products in Washington County. It also prohibits price promotions, coupons, and discounts for all tobacco and synthetic nicotine products.
The flavor ban was first passed by the Washington County Board of Commissioners in 2021. In 2022 the ordinance was referred to Washington County voters and was approved again. However, a lawsuit filed in 2022 has kept the ban from being enforced while it worked its way through the courts. The Supreme Court’s decision means that the ordinance will go back to the Washington County Circuit Court to address procedural issues before it is enforced.
Washington County’s flavor ban is the first of its kind in Oregon. There have been several attempts to pass a statewide flavor ban in the last three legislative sessions. All have been unsuccessful. Multnomah County passed a similar flavor ban in 2022. However, implementation has been delayed while the law is challenged in court. The case is is currently awaiting a decision from the Oregon Supreme Court. Nationwide, there are 435 jurisdictions and three Native American Tribes that have enforced some level of ban on flavored tobacco products. This includes statewide bans in California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Utah.
Supporters of flavor bans say they can help reduce the appeal of tobacco and nicotine products to youth. They also point to mentholated products, which research has shown can be more difficult to quit and have historically been heavily marketed to Black communities.
Results from Oregon's 2025 Student Health Survey show that tobacco and nicotine use among Marion County youth has increased. Among 11th graders, 13.9% reported they had ever used a tobacco or nicotine product, up from 10.6% in 2024. Among 8th graders, the rate increased from 7.4% to 8.3%.
The survey also found that flavored products remain popular among youth who use tobacco. Of Marion County students who reported using tobacco in the past 30 days, 65% of 11th graders and 69% of 8th graders said they had used flavored products.
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 Image of smiling student's in front of lockers
Written by Phoebe Barker, Tobacco Prevention Program at Marion County Health and Human Services
New nicotine products are constantly entering the market, and consequently, youth tobacco and nicotine use rates continue to rise. As schools work to navigate this ever-evolving landscape, they need policies and resources that keep pace with emerging products and support student health. To help districts meet these challenges, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has released updated recommendations and guidance for creating and maintaining nicotine-free schools.
With the passage of SB 1571, Oregon’s definition of tobacco now includes nicotine products such as vapes and nicotine pouches. This change strengthens tobacco prevention efforts across the state by ensuring that policies address new and emerging products, many of which are the same products that Oregon youth report using most frequently.
Schools are encouraged to review and update their policies to reflect this expanded definition and maintain comprehensive nicotine-free environments. The updated OHA School Policy Guide includes recommendations, best practices, and resources to support implementation.
🔗 Access the updated guidance here.
If you would like technical assistance or have questions about these updates, please contact the Marion County Tobacco Prevention and Education Program at mchdprevention@co.marion.or.us We are happy to support schools and community partners in creating healthier, nicotine-free environments for all students.
Written by Heidi Johnson, Gambling Harm Prevention Program Coordinator at Marion County Health and Human Services
Between finishing my first year of graduate school, and raising my daughter, life has been pretty busy! Thankfully, my two rescue dogs make sure I take a break every day for walks, playtime, and plenty of snuggles. Those moments have become some of my favorite parts of the day.
My first rescue, Sam, joined our family at five months old after we adopted him from the Humane Society. The moment my daughter and I met him, we knew he belonged with our family. Seven years later, he's still the sweetest dog. He's incredibly loyal, always wants to be close to us, and has become both my daughter's protector and the best snuggler.
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Lucy joined our family in November 2024 after we adopted her from Marion County Dog Services. Before coming to us, she had been found roaming on more than one occasion and had recently raised a litter of puppies before being surrendered. When we met her, she was very quiet and reserved. That didn't last long! Beagles have more energy than any dog I’ve ever met. They are also the friendliest. Lucy believes everyone is her new best friend. Whether it's a complete stranger or a baby in a stroller, she'll happily say hello before rolling over for belly rubs. It can get a little awkward on walks when she tries to go home with everyone she meets.
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Life with two high-energy dogs isn't always easy. They need exercise, attention, training, and plenty of patience. There are muddy paws, fur everywhere, and the occasional reminder that beagles have minds of their own.
Watching rescue dogs settle into a home, build trust, and become part of the family is very rewarding. Sam and Lucy have brought so much laughter, companionship, and unconditional love into our lives that it's hard to remember what life was like before them.
Adopting a dog is definitely a commitment, and it's important to make sure you're ready for that responsibility. But if you have the time, patience, and love to give, I can't recommend it enough. There are so many wonderful dogs waiting for someone to give them a second chance!
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Marion County Health Promotion & Prevention will highlight a variety of programs and health topics in our upcoming newsletter to keep you informed about key health promotion issues.
The next edition will be released during the first week of September 2026. If there's a topic you'd like us to cover, please let us know by emailing:
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