Beneath the glow of a Halloween moon, ODHS faces its fears, finds its footing, and proves that even in a season of shadows, compassion still conquers the creepiness. From budget bats and policy potions to plain-language spells and the steady light of foster-care heroes—this week’s episode brews equal parts humor, heart, and human service.
What’s Inside
Deadline: ODHS (8:26) & FACT of the Week (10:45)
- Five-Percent Budget Proposal (Oct. 20)
- Customer Service Policy (Oct. 20)
- FACT of the Week (Oct. 22)
Head of the Class (13:01)
- Plain Talk, Big Impact (Oct. 6)
- Generations in the Workforce (Oct. 6)
The Big Picture (15:49)
“Showing Up for Teens” — Christine Foley, Teen Permanency Worker (CW, Portland), shows how small acts of care build trust for youth in foster care. From Project Lemonade partnerships to consistent mentorship, she proves that policy means little without people.
Our Celebrity Pod.S.A. (30:30)
Have a “Thriller” of a Halloween
Credits
Hosts:
Dr. Bethany Grace Howe — Communications
Shenika — Community Partnership Coordinator, District 10
Produced by:
Dr. Bethany Grace Howe
Contact:
Questions / feedback: bethany.g.howe@odhs.oregon.gov
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Deadline: ODHS
Oct. 22, 2025
Director's message: Stay focused on what matters most
From: Acting ODHS Director Liesl Wendt
As you may have heard, the Oregon Legislature has directed all state agencies, including the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), to prepare a list of potential reductions equal to 5 percent of our 2025–27 budget. This request is part of a statewide response to federal funding cuts and a challenging state revenue forecast.
While this is not easy news to hear, it’s important to remember that no final decisions have been made. Our task right now is to identify options, so the Governor and the Legislature have the information they need to make choices in the months ahead.
I know this kind of uncertainty can be stressful, especially when you’re focused every day on helping people who depend on our services.
Please know that we will approach this process with care, transparency and a clear goal of protecting the core work that matters most — supporting the safety, stability and well-being for people in Oregon.
In the immediate term, we are focused on meeting the 5 percent reduction directive. We’ve already taken steps to limit non-essential spending, hold some vacancies open longer, and reduce travel. Over the next few weeks, ODHS leaders will continue developing our 5 percent reduction proposal in partnership with the Governor’s office. The proposal will be submitted to the Legislature November 3, with any final budget changes to be decided during the 2026 short session that begins in February 2026.
At the same time, we are continuing important medium-term efforts that will make ODHS stronger and more sustainable in the long run:
- Reducing Oregon’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Payment Error Rate (PER). The PER measures the accuracy of SNAP benefit amounts paid to participating households. Oregon must lower its PER to below 6 percent to avoid an estimated $250 million in additional federal costs. A dedicated team is working to improve payment accuracy while ensuring that we continue helping as many people in Oregon as possible.
- Advancing our ODHS Transformation Project, which focuses on simplifying systems, improving coordination, and making it easier for staff to do their jobs and for people to get help. This transformation work is a key part of how we’re meeting current budget challenges. By improving how we deliver services and support staff, we can become more efficient and effective — even as resources tighten.
Many of you joined us October 15 for a virtual office hour where we discussed these themes. The session was recorded for on-demand viewing. We will keep communicating with you as we move through the key decisions ahead. In the meantime, thank you for your commitment, compassion, and professionalism. Your work remains the foundation of everything ODHS does for people in Oregon — and together, we’ll navigate this challenge with the same dedication that defines our agency.
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Oct. 20, 2025
New ODHS Customer Service Policy Office Hours on Oct. 23 to prepare for policy implementation on Nov. 1
A REMINDER: Beginning November 1, 2025, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and Oregon Health Authority will implement a new Customer Service Policy. This policy aligns with the Governor’s statewide customer service initiative and reflects our shared commitment to providing equitable, respectful and responsive service to the people of Oregon.
Please remember the ODHS Customer Service Policy guidelines are also now available to the public on the Governor’s Advocacy Office Customer Service webpage, for transparency and access for our partners and the people we serve. Thank you for all the excellent service you already provide.
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FACT of the Week
Oct. 22, 2025
FACT of the Week: November SNAP food benefits may be delayed
As a follow-up to the communication shared Monday, please make sure you and your team members are aware of the potential disruption to SNAP benefits in November.
Governor Tina Kotek announced that SNAP recipients may not receive their November food benefits on time if the federal government shutdown continues into November. The Trump Administration has directed states to delay the distribution of November food benefits until further notice. This delay could impact approximately 757,000 Oregonians, including children, older adults and working families.
ODHS will not mail notices to people who get SNAP if November benefits are delayed. Please recommend they watch ODHS communications channels for updates and sign-up for ONE Online accounts or Oregon ONE Mobile to get messages about the status of November SNAP benefits.
We expect many individuals who rely on these benefits will be feeling anxious, confused, or frustrated. Please approach these conversations with empathy, patience and information to help ease concerns and provide support during this uncertain time.
Thank you for helping ensure compassionate communication with the public.
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Head of the Class
Oct. 6, 2025
Have unfamiliar acronyms or workplace jargon made you feel confused or left out?
Plain language is inclusive. It avoids using jargon and acronyms. The benefits are clear: fewer mistakes, less confusion and more trust. Clear communication lets people feel safe to share their experiences and get the support they need. It helps make sure everyone has the knowledge and the power to understand and act.
Join the first Plain Talk Lunch and Learn session on November 19th from 12:05-12:55 p.m. to engage in a lively discussion about this important and often-misunderstood topic. Get answers, voice opinions and share your experiences. Plus, learn tips and techniques from a panel of ODHS and OHA staff with experience making complex topics inclusive and accessible. After registering, you’ll receive a confirmation email with information about joining the meeting.
Love plain language? Go to the Plain Language Resources OWL page and learn how to join our plain language work group!
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Oct. 20, 2025
Generations in the Workforce: a free one-hour Continuing Education Unit (CEU) training event open to all ODHS staff
Don’t miss the Generations in the Workforce training on December 3, 2025! Join us on Zoom to earn 1 Continuing Education Unit and pick up practical tips for building a workplace where all generations feel valued and included—register now in Workday Learning! This is open to all ODHS staff.
Continuing Education Units (CEU) provide the opportunity for individuals to have recognition of their efforts to update/broaden their occupational knowledge, skills, or attitudes.
Oregon Department of Human Services
503-951-1217
https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/
