Upcoming Events



Do-It-Yourself Cooling Workshop (In-person and online)

September 23rd | 2pm to 3pm
Come learn low-cost cooling and energy saving techniques for renters and homeowners alike. Learn how to save water and energy, cool your home without using air conditioning, and prevent heat related illness.
Read More



Healthy Homes: Mold and Indoor Air Quality Workshop (In-person and online)

October 12th | 3pm to 4pm

This workshop focuses on maintaining healthy indoor air quality and mold prevention. Qualifying Portland residents will receive a free kit of materials. Read More




Connections: Healthy Relationships with Family, Friends, and Partners


October 13th through November 12th | 2pm to 4pm 

Our popular ten-part Connections class returns! Scroll to the next section of the newsletter to learn more. Deadline to apply is October 1st!



Halloween Craft Night (In-person)

October 19th | 2pm - 4:30pm

The Crafting Hour is close at hand! Join us at the INW office for a Halloween-themed afternoon of crafting fun. Costumes are welcomed but of course, optional. Read More


Wednesday
September 23rd

Do It Yourself

Cooling

 Workshop

Monday
October 12th

Healthy Homes Mold and Indoor Air Quality Workshop

Monday

October 19th

Halloween

Craft Night


 
 
 

Apply Now for our Connections Healthy Relationships Class!


Join us for a comprehensive 10-part class on healthy relationships, where you'll learn the skills to nurture and strengthen your connections with the people you interact with every day.


Connections is an in-person series specifically designed for brokerage customers who want to take their relationships to the next level, whether that's building a stronger support network, expanding your social circle, or even exploring romantic connections.


Deadline to apply is October 1st by 5pm. 

Full details including a video explainer, registration information, schedule, and an online application can be found
here.

 

An Update on Medicaid Changes



A couple of weeks back, we sent out letters to our customers sharing information about potential changes for Oregonians who receive Medicaid. These changes are the result of H.R. 1, a law Congress passed last year. You may have heard President Trump refer to it as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”. 



Starting in 2027, some people may have new requirements to keep their Medicaid benefits. These may include working, going to school or job training, volunteering, or doing other approved activities for up to 80 hours each month.


These changes will not apply to everyone. In fact, we currently estimate that fewer than 10% of INW customers will be affected. The Oregon Department of Human Services will soon be sending letters to about 600,000 Medicaid recipients,. We know the notices may be confusing or worrying but please know we're here to help.


Our team is reviewing eligibility information now to determine which customers may be affected. If we think the new requirements may apply to you, we will contact you before December 31 to talk about your options. Depending on your situation, you may qualify for Medicaid in a different way, qualify for an exemption, or need to meet the new requirements.


You can read the letter we sent out and learn more about the changes on our website.


For now, everyone should make sure their contact information is up to date in their Oregon ONE account and pay close attention to any letters about Medicaid renewal. There are still many details to work out, and each person’s situation is different. We will continue following these changes and will share new information as we learn more.


Visit the State of Oregon's HR1 website here.


Get the ONE Eligibility App for iPhone
Get the ONE Eligibility App for Android



Two Easy Ways to Support INW's Customer Emergency Fund


INW’s Customer Emergency Fund helps customers and families when they face an urgent need and other resources are not available. Since 2007, the fund has helped pay for things like emergency hotel stays, utility bills, winter clothing, holiday meals, and small home repairs.


There are two easy ways you can help support the fund this fall.


First, treat yourself to some doughnuts! From September through November 30, you can order a Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Dozen through our fundraiser, and Krispy Kreme will donate 50% of your purchase to INW’s Customer Emergency Fund.


You can also help every time you shop at Fred Meyer. Through the Fred Meyer Community Rewards Program, you can link your Rewards Card to Independence Northwest. Then, just shop like you normally do and use your Rewards Card or phone number at checkout. Fred Meyer will make donations to INW based on your eligible purchases, at no extra cost to you. Your fuel points and other Rewards benefits are not affected.


To sign up, log in to your Fred Meyer account, go to Community Rewards, and search for Independence Northwest or enter our code DT760. Once you link your card, you’re all set!

 
 

Lead Personal Agent Resource Corner



Welcome to the first Lead Personal Agent Resource Corner column!


INW Lead PAs Megan Dart-McLean and Angie Frank have pulled together a list of energy, utility, and housing resources.


We hope something here may be helpful to you or someone you care about. And if you have any questions on any of the resources here, feel free to reach out to your PA for more details. We're here to help.



Pacific Power Oregon Low-Income Discount Program


Portland General Electric (PGE) Income-Qualified Bill Discount


NW Natural Income-Qualified Bill Discount Program


Portland Water Bureau Financial Assistance Program


Oregon Community Solar Low-Income Program


Clackamas County Utility Support - This includes heating assistance October through December and cooling assistance in May and June)


Community Action Utility Assistance for Washington County residents


Oregon Health Authority Health Related Social Needs (HRSN) Program - A statewide program that offers air conditioners, heaters, air filters, mini fridges to keep medication cold during a power outage, portable power supplies, and more.


Community Action Emergency Rent Assistance Program for Washington County residents


Blanche Fischer Foundation Individual Grant Program - Oregonians with a physical disability can request up to $1,500 to buy assistive tech that could include a cooling unit.


Beaverton Resource Center - a great basic needs resource list including housing, food, mental health, healthcare, clothing, and more.


NW Housing Alternatives HomeBase Program - an intensive case management program for Clackamas County households who are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness.


 

Upcoming Advocacy Opportunities


Build a Movement 
(In-Person)


Build A Movement is a series of in-person events for advocates to work together on Oregon state legislation. Self-advocates receive a gift card for attending and food is provided for the in-person event.


RSVP by calling 503-522-0409 or emailing GlennaH@ucpconnections.org

Build a Movement (Virtual)


Build A Movement is a series of virtual events for advocates to work together on Oregon state legislation. Self-advocates receive a gift card for attending. Zoom links are provided when you RSVP.


RSVP by calling 503-522-0409 or emailing GlennaH@ucpconnections.org



Inclusive Leadership Summit (Virtual Option Still Available)


On September 22nd, the Inclusive Leadership Summit brings together Oregon’s self-advocates, family members, professionals and state leaders to create change.


The Oregon Self-Advocacy Coalition invites you to the state’s fourth annual Inclusive Leadership Summit!


Click here to 

attend virtually





 
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Independence Northwest919 NE 19th Avenue #275 Portland, OR 97232 US