ProPublica has the answer:
www.propublica.org/article/portland-protests-national-guard-fox-news-coverage
Gene Dieken
Sheriff tells Clatsop County Commissioners ICE interaction could be ‘perilous’ Published 11:30 am Thursday, November 13, 2025 By MATHIAS LEHMAN-WINTERS Clatsop County Sheriff Matthew Phillips said ICE operations put local law enforcement in a tough spot. (The Astorian file photo) They operate with ‘a different rulebook’ On Saturday, Nov. 8, six people were detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in Seaside. The community was alarmed by the actions and it was one of the main topics of discussion at the Clatsop County Commission meeting on Wednesday. Clatsop County Sheriff Matthew Phillips spoke at the meeting and communicated to the commissioners that he and the other 35 sheriffs across the state had had an earlier meeting that day with ICE officials. The meeting, Phillips said, did nothing to assuage local law enforcement concerns about ICE raids. “We laid out several instances that brought significant concern, and basically they didn’t blink,” said Phillips. “They were maybe indifferent to what our concerns were, not responsive or acknowledging them.” The sheriffs listed examples of dangerous situations to Scott Meyer, interim field office director for ICE out of Seattle, and other ICE officials. In one instance, a sheriff said an unidentified ICE vehicle chased a car resulting in a high-speed crash in Salem. In another, ICE agents stopped a woman, took her car keys and ID and left her on the side of the road. The sheriffs reported that local law enforcement agencies had been flooded recently with calls about abductions and apparent crimes that turned out to be ICE operations, according to Phillips. “We had a very unproductive conversation with ICE today, so that’s problematic,” said Phillips. “It really harms the legitimacy,” he said. Commissioner Mark Kujala said ICE actions are causing fear in the community and are not acceptable. “There is a certain arrogance and obviously not a spirit of cooperation or collaboration with what is going on,” said Kujala. “We have U.S. citizens that (are) carrying around their passports because they’re afraid that just because of the color of their skin they’re going to get arrested or detained.” Phillips said the ICE officials said there were increasing numbers of assaults and threats directed at them. They said assaults against their officers were up 1,000%, and threats against the families of ICE officers up 8,000%. “I can’t help but wonder if the way they’re conducting business has an impact on that,” said Phillips. “You can do it respectfully and still accomplish the mission.” Phillips said he had told ICE officials that their tactics “don’t necessarily fit the profile of the person that they’re taking down. …they’re not all taken off the Top 10 Most Wanted list,” he said. Commissioner Lianne Thompson wondered if ICE was conducting the detentions lawfully. “What I hear you describing (and) what I read about is lawlessness under the guise of a federal policy,” said Thompson. She then asked what the commission could do to support the sheriff’s department. “This is a very difficult situation,” Phillips said. “Federal law enforcement is able to operate with a lot more liberties than state and local law enforcement. We have to accept that they have a different rulebook.” Phillips then said he is concerned that if his deputies or other local law enforcement challenged ICE agents during an action, they could be arrested for interfering with federal operations. “Potentially, the best thing we could do is be good observers and document and report things,” said Phillips. Phillipps said he “has the sense” that the ICE officials they were talking in the meeting weren’t aware of what actually was taking place as they said with assurance that their agents always wore vests with clear markings. “The sheriffs around the room basically laughed and challenged them on that and said, ‘That is not what’s happening in the communities,’” said Phillips. At the end of the meeting with county commissioners, Phillips said spectators should keep their distance from any ICE operations that may happen in the future and warned that confronting ICE agents could be “perilous.” The Astorian reached out to Phillips on Thursday, and asked if he thought there would be increased ICE activity in Clatsop County. “My best guess … They’ve brought in (ICE) agents from around the country,” said Phillips. “They’re focusing on Oregon for a period of time, and then they’re going to go focus on another state.”
Please feel free to give me a call and we will discuss the needs of your loved one. I can also be reached at 503-707-4027. Thank you.
With sporadic help from our government, it is important in our community and surrounding areas that we stay on top of the push to keep our North County Food Bank and the Nehalem Bay Community Food Pantry secure. The North County Food Bank is open on Tuesday. You can take food there on Tuesday from 10 AM to noon. They are only able to take food at this time-no clothing or such. The mailing address for them is NCFB, PO Box 162, Wheeler, Oregon 97147. Or you can bring food you would like to donate to our protest. Nehalem Bay Community Services, located at the Methodist Church in Nehalem, is requesting food, both for people and animals, plus kitty litter. They can take clean, used clothing, blankets, bedding, pillows, and personal care items. They are open Monday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM. Also, on Wednesday from 1 PM to 5 PM.
Please do what you can when you can. The North County Resistance was taking donations at their protest this past Saturday. It worked very well with both donations and cash for these two organizations. Thank you all very much.
Well, where do we go from here? North County Resistance is looking at all our unresolved problems. We thought the Democrats would remain unified. Who is going to stand up and push for more negotiations. Our Resistance will carry on. We will continue to Protest.
Please join us in our Protest if you are not happy with all that goes on. We need you to come and join us.
Best,
Patty
For more information, go to our website NehalemBayCS.org
36050 10th Street
PO Box 232
Nehalem, OR 97131
503-368-4385
admin@nehalembaycs.org
Equal Opportunity Provider
Sapote was the first of his litter to find his purr, and he loves to share it with the world! Friendly, playful, and confident, Sapote is almost unflappable. His siblings seem to turn to him as their leader, and he’s a kind and loving brother to all of them, but shares a particular bond with his sister Lilikoi. He also loves people and runs delightedly to greet human visitors.
At her foster home, Lilikoi is known as “Lilikoi The Bold.” She’s fearless, energetic, and is on a mission to explore everything and everyone around her. The word “Lilikoi” is another word for Passionfruit, and it fits this delightful little girl BEAUTIFULLY. She also loves exploring and lives her life with gusto. She’s smart and sweet, and is one of the first kittens to greet human visitors.
Lilikoi & Sapote are a bonded pair and are seeking a forever home where they can continue to play and snuggle together. Does it sound like a treat to greet each new day with these delightful kittens? Schedule a Meet & Greet by emailing unitedpawshelp@gmail.com, or visit unitedpaws.org to complete an application.
We are thrilled to know SNAP benefits will be restored for Oregonians by November 7 and want to acknowledge the generous donors and volunteers who responded in the meantime to help our community.
While the federal government is in shutdown, there is still a level of uncertainty and unmet need we are working to address. Here are ways for you to help:
1. Make a donation: The biggest impact is a monetary donation to help us purchase items for the food pantry and senior meals.
2. Donate your time: Please contact us to find out more about opportunities.
3. Donate needed items: Keeping our pantries stocked and available is a priority for our community. Please see our website to find a list of needed and acceptable items. We also accept clothing, hygiene products, and pet supplies. Drop off when the Food Pantry is open (Monday, Friday and Saturday 10 to 2, Wednesday 1 to 5.)
4. Stay connected with us! More information on our website and Facebook page.
5. We thank our community for the Food Barrels around the area. Also, the North County Food Bank in Wheeler is open on Tuesday from noon to three.
Thank you for your generosity as we work to help those in need in our community achieve their full potential.
NehalemBayCS.org
36050 10th Street
PO Box 232
Nehalem, OR 97131
503-368-4385
admin@nehalembaycs.org
Leaving no doubt about his intentions, after knocking down the hornet nest he proceeds to vigorously shake it with flight cancellations. Again, thanks for making it crystal clear to Americans.
Democrats talk a lot about inclusion, but what we really want and in fact desperately need is an “inclusive economy” in which those currently struggling or left out can play a fulfilling part. It should be clear now that wealth disparity is causing jobs to disappear or become depressingly inadequate. I think big box stores, mega corporations, and tech bros play a major part, and to counteract the damage in their wake we should focus more on local communities.
-Dave
Practicing empathy is especially important when things don’t go as planned—whether it’s unexpected, bad weather or daily frustrations. Instead of rushing to criticize or getting upset, take a moment to pause and “chill.” Many of us are fortunate to have secure housing, enough food, and a warm place to stay, which isn’t the case for everyone. A simple act, like greeting someone with a smile or asking how they’re really doing at the post office or grocery store, can help brighten someone’s day. Go a step further by truly listening to their response and offering encouragement. If you see them again, follow up and ask how they are managing.
Supporting our community is vital, especially as many organizations work hard to address food insecurity during these colder months. If you’re able, consider volunteering at a local food bank, donating non-perishable items, or spreading the word about community resources. Even if you receive frequent requests for help, please remember that these efforts are ongoing because the need remains. Your involvement can have a lasting impact. And, as we continue to advocate for everyone’s well-being and rights, let’s stay patient and compassionate throughout this season and beyond.
Thankyou, Patty
5 weeks plus of the Government Shutdown results in hungry neighbors and there are absolutely no winners in this game. With SNAP benefits cut in half and food banks serving at least twice as many people, we are asking you to make your most generous gift today.
We are very lucky to live where we do as so many people are stepping up with donations, cash, and such to help provide food for many in our community and we are asking you to KEEP GIVING. Every can of food or dollar donated helps a local family in need.
HOW TO HELP:
Mail a check to North County Food Bank (NCFB)
Drop off food at either North County Food Bank or Nehalem Bay Community Services Food Pantry
Drop off clean clothing, bedding and blankets at Nehalem Bay Community Services Food Pantry (Currently the NCFB cannot take clothing.)
Drop off any donations at the North County Resistance PROTEST on Saturday, November 8, noon to 2PM, at the main intersection in Nehalem – we will get the donation where you want it to go
North County Food Bank, PO Box 162, Wheeler, Oregon 97147
Nehalem Bay Community Services Food Pantry, PO Box 232, Nehalem, Oregon 97131. This Food Pantry is open Monday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM and on Wednesday from 1 PM to 5 PM.
Both organizations are stepping up to help in this crisis. Last week, one participant shared how receiving food from the pantry made a difference for their family. Moments like these remind us that we are better together—thank you for being part of this caring community.
Ideas for giving food include: breads, cereal, meats, frozen meals, eggs, cottage cheese, yogurt, fresh produce, canned fruits and vegetables, canned meats, peanut butter and jelly, soup, chili, catsup, mayo, flour, sugar, yeast, to just name a few items. Consider a box of food to feed a family of 4 for a day or two. You get the drift and the gift! Save your receipts for a tax deduction if you qualify.
Thanks to this generous community for all your donations and support so far. We have three weeks until Thanksgiving. Kids will be out of school with no breakfast or lunch they would normally get at school on Thursday and Friday. How can you help with that? What would your kids want?
Interested in joining our PROTEST? Read on:
We will be PROTESTING once again on November 8, in Nehalem, from noon to 2 PM. We will gather at the main intersection in Nehalem; parking is available nearby. Look for our signs and friendly faces to join in. We do hope you will join us. My phone is showing me it will be cloudy and cool. The 21 people who met last Saturday to PROTEST got a little wet. It was fine when we started and then there was a mad dash to cars to get the rain gear on. So, dress in layers and don’t forget the rain gear. Bring your signs if you have some—we always have some to share. I like to bring a chair, but with the rain last week sitting was not so comfortable. When 2 PM came last week we all gave a huge cheer to one another.
Best,
Patty Rinehart
Key Details from USDA Findings
In court filings, a USDA official described a preliminary review of state data that found several types of potential fraud and abuse, including:
300,000 potential instances of deceased individuals still enrolled in SNAP.
Over 500,000 instances of “dummy” Social Security numbers being used.
Households receiving multiple payments or individuals receiving benefits in multiple states.
Undocumented Immigrants and SNAP:
Federal law prohibits undocumented immigrants from receiving SNAP benefits; generally, only U.S. citizens and eligible legal residents can receive them. However, the USDA has made this a focus of recent crackdowns following a presidential executive order.
Government Shutdown: The current government shutdown, which started in October 2025, has added urgency to the situation, with the USDA Secretary making the fraud findings public as a means to encourage congressional action on funding and program reform. The lack of a funding resolution threatens to disrupt benefits for millions of Americans.
Greetings from the North County Resistance group. We will be PROTESTING once again on November 8, in Nehalem, from noon to 2 PM. We will gather at the main intersection in Nehalem; parking is available nearby. Look for our signs and friendly faces to join in. We do hope you will join us. My phone is showing me it will be cloudy and cool. The 21 people who met last Saturday to PROTEST got a little wet. It was fine when we started and then there was a mad dash to cars to get the rain gear on. So, dress in layers and don’t forget the rain gear. Bring your signs if you have some—we always have some to share. I like to bring a chair, but with the rain last week sitting was not so comfortable.
When 2 PM came last week we all gave a huge cheer to one another.
5 weeks plus of the Government Shutdown. Absolutely no winners in this game. The American people are the losers. SNAP benefits cut in half and food banks are serving at least twice as many people. We are very lucky to live where we do as so many people are stepping up with donations, cash, and such to help provide food for many in our community.
Every can of food or dollar donated helps a local family in need—just bring your items to the protest or drop them off. Yes, we continue to collect food for the North County Food Bank at our PROTEST. You don’t have to be part of the PROTEST, but just drop off food, checks, cash for whatever organization you wish to donate, and we will get your donation where you want it to go.
A couple of addresses for you would be North County Food Bank, PO Box 162, Wheeler, Oregon 97147. Currently the NCFB cannot take clothing. The Nehalem Bay Community Services Food Pantry in Nehalem is taking both food, clean clothing and bedding, blankets, and such. Let’s start getting those closets cleaned out—we’re not the same size we used to be. Both organizations are doing their best to help in this crisis.
Last week, one participant shared how receiving food from the pantry made a difference for their family. Moments like these remind us why we come together—thank you for being part of this caring community.
Ideas for giving food include, breads, cereal, meats, frozen meals, eggs, cottage cheese, yogurt, fresh produce, canned fruits and vegetables, canned meats, peanut butter and jelly, soup, chili, catsup, mayo, flower, sugar, yeast, to just name a few items. Consider a box of food to feed a family of 4 for a day or two. You get the drift and the gift! Save your receipts for a tax deduction if you qualify.
Thanks to this generous community for all your donations and support so far. We have just a little over two weeks until Thanksgiving. Kids will be out of school with no breakfast or lunch they would normally get at school on Thursday and Friday. How can you help with that? What would your kids want?
Best,
Patty Rinehart
It is narrow, only 20 feet. I believe that in the YouTube video of the Council Meeting on October 5, 2025, it was said there would not even be a yellow stripe down the center.
This is an arterial used by large RVs (busses, even) and trailers to and from the State Park. It will become much busier. It’s already narrower than it should be (which is 22 feet according to the extensive planning the State ODOT gave us), and the $400,000 Manzanita paid to a superior national engineering firm. That firm was fired, their excellent plan discarded. (It had a west retaining wall to designed to curtail long-term road failure on the west side). A contractor who bid unsuccessfully on that $400,000 design now has a legal protest against the City.
The new design has no western retaining wall, only paying for a City-built $400,000 cost Classic Cottages wall. The Cottages neighborhood will then own and keep up the wall built by the City.
When it comes to a “Value vs. Cost” equation, the City, for a pittance of difference between a higher value, better lasting road and a slightly cheaper narrow road, has chosen the latter. Another classic decision.
At their November 5th Meeting, our Council will consider passage of a Resolution to reduce the paving width of a portion of Classic Street as part of the current reconstruction project that in effect would create vehicle travel lanes that will only meet the minimum standards for a residential street. Classic Street is not a residential street, it is a Collector Street that carries more and larger vehicles than a residential street is designed for. The Council should be prepared to explain how approving a street design intended for neighborhood residential streets protects the public’s health, safety and welfare given the volume and type of vehicles that travel on Classic Street.
Unless a City Ordinance contains language that grants the Council authority to consider changes, a Council is not authorized to alter the minimum standards contained in a City Ordinance no matter how expedient or well intentioned the reason. The City Council in 1991 that enacted the lane width standards for Manzanita streets under Section 3 of Ordinance 91-2 intentionally omitted any provisions or process that would allow future Councils to reduce total paving widths to less than 22 feet for Collector Streets.
The relationship between an Ordinance as a permanent enforceable law and a Council Resolution is not a particularly difficult concept for the Council to understand. The primacy of a City Ordinance over a Council Resolution is made clear to each Councilor as they pledge to uphold existing Ordinances upon taking their oath of office.
The saying when you find yourself in a hole, quit digging fits the Council’s present predicament. This project lurches from one questionable decision to another and trying to tidy up the mess with this Resolution only heightens the Council’s desperation to regain community confidence.
Wednesday night is an integrity check for Council members. Will any of them quit digging and say no to this Resolution or will they continue to dig in unison?
Randy Kugler
Editor’s Note
This Q&A is based on an interview with Julia Wentzel (Regional Manager, Tillamook County
Services, Oregon Food Bank) on what changes to SNAP mean for our community. Listen to the full interview at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVvP2bCONic
Q: What is SNAP, and how does it affect Tillamook County?
A: SNAP, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps, is
government support that helps low-income families buy food. In Tillamook County, about
one in six residents and one in four children rely on SNAP. Yet, many more people qualify
and aren’t receiving benefits. It’s a significant part of how families put food on the table.
Q: How will upcoming changes to SNAP affect our community?
A: Starting January 1, 2026 changes mandated by federal legislation (H.R. 1) will make it much harder for able-bodied adults to qualify. Currently, adults who are struggling but able-bodied can still receive limited assistance. That waiver will end, meaning those individuals can only receive SNAP for three months every three years. Even though the policy targets adults, it will ripple through families. Parents are the ones buying food, after
all.
Q: And now, with the potential government shutdown, how does that play into this?
A: If the shutdown continues, SNAP benefits could be frozen for everyone beginning November 1. The USDA has chosen not to use contingency funds this time, so benefits that usually refill monthly simply won’t appear. Families are panicking. We’ve already seen a surge in visits to food pantries across Tillamook as people try to prepare for losing those benefits.
Q: What can people do to help right now?
A: The number one way to help is by donating funds. Financial donations allow us to buy
food in bulk and stretch dollars further. You can donate at oregonfoodbank.org and select the Tillamook location to keep funds local. Food donations are also welcome, especially
shelf-stable, healthy items, but please call first since our sites are short-staffed. Another big help is creative community support: pay-it-forward grocery programs, food drives, or even picking up an extra bag of groceries for a neighbor. And of course, advocate. Food insecurity is a result of policy decisions, not food shortages. Reaching out to legislators matters.
Q: Who can visit a food pantry?
A: Anyone who needs to. Pantries ask that you self-identify as needing food, but no proof of
income is required. We collect minimal information, and you can remain anonymous if you
wish. To find a pantry near you, visit oregonfoodfinder.org . You can search by location or need.
Q: How big is the economic impact of SNAP locally?
A: SNAP brings about half a million dollars a month into Tillamook County. That money
supports local grocery stores, farmers, and businesses. When SNAP benefits are cut, it
doesn’t just affect families. It affects our entire local economy.
Q: Any final thoughts?
A: We’re so grateful to the Tillamook community. The need right now is beyond what food
banks alone can meet, but people here truly care. As we head into the holidays, remember that food is a basic human right, and even a small act of generosity can make a huge
difference for a neighbor in need.
Learn more or donate at oregonfoodbank.org
Note: This interview was conducted on October 29, 2025. Federal funding for SNAP
benefits during the federal government shutdown is in flux. On October 31st, a federal court
ruling ordered the Administration to use contingency funding to provide SNAP entitlements
for November. However, the rollout of SNAP benefits in Oregon may be delayed.
Let’s Talk Tillamook is an independent community project led by experienced broadcasters
and journalists dedicated to providing accurate, factual information and thoughtful conversations for the people of Tillamook County.
November 1, 2025
We were in and out of our rain gear in Nehalem today. Then someone pointed out a rainbow! This group of people were both serious about their mission and wanting to figure out how they could help our community as we continue our journey to provide, at a minimum, food security.
I’m not sure where to start here. Let’s say we start at food security. From today we have 8 weeks between now and December 27-about the end of the year. My sense is that many people in our area can donate something to the following organizations that serve individuals, families, and children of our community.
Nehalem Bay Community Services, PO Box 232, Nehalem, Oregon 97131.
North County Food Bank, PO Box 162, Wheeler, Oregon 97147.
Family Resource Center/Neah-Kah-Nie Resource Center, PO Box 28, Rockaway Beach, Oregon, 97138.
If you give $5 for these eight weeks=$40
If you give $10 for these eight weeks=$80
If you give $15 for these eight weeks= I’m thinkin’ =$120
Think about what you might be able to give each week for the next 8 weeks. A $1 a week helps too. Now to give, you can mail your donation to each group or give it to me at next week’s Protest in Nehalem. We are there from noon to 2 PM and want to support all groups. We are here for our community and humanity.
What else can we/you do? You tell me. Ideas and help are needed from everyone. You tell me.
Thanks,
Patty
North County Resistance will be PROTESTING in Nehalem on November 1, at the Public Parking Lot, from noon to 2 PM. Please join us for this Peaceful Protest. We will be focusing on how to make daily life better for each person in our country.
Previous protests have brought out many ideas-to list a few:
We care for each other, not just ourselves.
I want a democracy we can pass on to our kids and grandkids.
I’m concerned about the assault on people of color.
I have courage being with others-we must not give up.
Donald Trump is working to destroy the many exceptional American institutions that
make our country great.
Love and kindness are much bigger than hate and fear.
I am horrified at the blatant disregard for our constitution.
We are losing our democracy, and I need to do what I can to get it back.
Not quite in a nutshell, but there it is. Raingear is probably required, bring a chair, we have extra signs, and don’t forget your positive attitude. We’ve got to continue our quest!
On another note: We continue to collect food for the North County Food Bank in Wheeler. As I am sure you are all aware there are several places in North Tillamook County, the area that covers School District 56, from Garibaldi to the Tillamook County line to the north, who are always there to help people who need a little more security than what they might have. I want to send out some information about these places to you. Some of you have already received it. One correction is the Nehalem Bay Community Services contact information. It should read PO Box 232, Nehalem, Oregon 97131. Apologies for this mistake. A friend of mine commented on the question of separating the PROTEST from Security issues. She said food security, housing security, clothing security, and all the other securities people face is a human-to-human issue-has nothing to do with politics. I hope you agree.
Please pitch in and help our neighbors. Only 4 Saturdays left before Thanksgiving so we really need to dedicate ourselves. Thanks!
Security in Tillamook County means more than just feeling safe—it’s about ensuring everyone has what they need to thrive: healthy food, stable housing, warm clothing, and comfortable bedding. As we look toward 2025, these essentials remain at the heart of our collective well-being. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, you play a vital role in making our community secure for all.
Our Community’s Commitment to Security
Across Tillamook County, neighbors come together to support one another. From volunteers packing meals to organizations gathering donations, the spirit of generosity is alive and well. Let’s walk through some of the dedicated groups making a difference—and how you can join in. This note concentrates on people who reside in the Neah-Kah-Nie School District 56, stretching from Garibaldi to the north Tillamook County Line.
Nehalem Bay Community Services: Nourishing Families, One Meal at a Time
When you enter Nehalem Bay Community Services, you’ll likely meet their great volunteers. Last year, the organization distributed over 5,000 meals to families in need, supported by donations of food, clothing, linens, and more. Their food pantry welcomes everyone Monday, Friday, and Saturday (10 AM–2 PM), and Wednesday (1 PM–5 PM). Senior lunches are served and delivered on Tuesday and Thursday, offering not just nutrition but companionship.
Want to help? Drop off canned meats, peanut butter, bread, or other staples. Every contribution—big or small—makes a direct impact. Nehalem Bay Community Services, PO Box 232, Nehalem, Oregon 97131.
North County Food Bank: Support for All Ages
Transitioning from Nehalem Bay, the North County Food Bank in Wheeler is a lifeline for many. “We had nowhere else to turn, and North County Food Bank made sure my family didn’t go hungry,” shares Tom, a local resident. The food bank opens its doors every Tuesday at the old clinic building located in Wheeler, providing groceries to people of all ages. While their Clothing Bank is temporarily closed, food and financial donations are urgently needed to keep shelves stocked.
To lend a hand, consider donating food or funds. Every dollar and every can counts. North County Food Bank, PO Box 162, Wheeler, Oregon 97147.
Rockaway Beach Lions: Bringing Holiday Cheer
As the holidays approach, the Rockaway Beach Lions step in to deliver food baskets to families and seniors. “Receiving a holiday basket from the Lions made us feel remembered,” says Maria, a grandmother in Rockaway Beach. These gestures bring warmth and joy to many who might otherwise go without during the holidays. Rockaway Beach Lions, PO Box 611, Rockaway Beach, Oregon, 97136.
Meals for Seniors, Inc.: Supporting Independence and Friendship
For over two decades, Meals for Seniors, Inc. has helped older adults stay independent and connected. “It’s not just about the food—the friends I’ve made here mean everything,” says Evelyn, a regular at St. Mary by the Sea Church dining hall. Serving and delivering meals on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, the organization provides over 12,000 meals each year, along with opportunities to socialize and feel cared for.
Volunteer, donate, or simply spread the word to support their mission. Meals for Seniors, PO Box 852, Rockaway Beach, Oregon 97136.
Neah-Kah-Nie School District Family Resource Center: Empowering Students and Families
To bridge the gap for students, the Neah-Kah-Nie School District’s Family Resource Center sends food home with kids on weekends and offers extra support during the holidays. “The backpack program helped us get through tough times,” notes a grateful parent. By assisting students from Nehalem and Garibaldi Grade Schools through to the Middle and Senior High School, the Resource Center ensures no child goes hungry.
Learn more and discover how you can help by visiting their website. Family Resource Center – Neah-Kah-Nie School District
How You Can Make a Difference—Step-by-Step
Donate Essentials: Bring canned food, peanut butter, bread, or other staples to local pantries. Ask your organization or church to host donation drives.
Contribute Financially: Give $5 at your next meeting or consider a one-time gift to any of these nonprofits.
Volunteer Your Time: Help sort donations, serve meals, or deliver food baskets.
Spread the Word: Share this newsletter, encourage others to join, and advocate for community support.
Stay Connected: Look for updates on what local organizations need most and check back often to see how you can help.
Please volunteer and donate what you can. Your compassion and involvement ensure that everyone in Tillamook County can enjoy a safe, secure, and welcoming home. Together, we can make sure no one goes without the essentials. Thank you for listening, giving, and caring—let’s keep the spirit of community alive in 2025 and beyond.
Best,
Patty
Thanks in advance.
