Crisis and Response: A Community in Need

The numbers tell a compelling story of growing hardship in our community:

Our 83% increase in food box distribution over three years reflects the rising cost of groceries and housing, forcing more families to choose between paying rent and putting food on the table

The 15,813 individuals who sought help at our Community Service Centers include not just chronically unhoused people, but also:

·       Working families struggling with inflation

·       Seniors on fixed incomes

·       Students facing food insecurity

·       Previously stable households experiencing their first financial crisis

Case Management: The Path to Stability

Our 11,229 case management services this year represent thousands of personal stories of progress

·       Individual action plans for self-sufficiency

·       Employment readiness support

·       Financial literacy education

·       Connection to additional community resources

The Growing Challenge

The increasing demand for our services reflects several concerning trends in Lane County:

·       Rising housing costs outpacing wage growth

·       Inflation affecting basic necessities

·       Limited affordable housing inventory

·       Growing senior population on fixed incomes

·       Continued impact of economic instability

Hope in Action: Success Stories

Despite these challenges, we see hope every day:

·       A single mother securing stable employment through our job readiness program

·       A senior citizen keeping their home warm through our energy assistance

·       A refugee family opening their own small business

·       A homeless veteran finding permanent housing

·       A family avoiding eviction through emergency assistance

Looking Forward: Our Commitment to Change

As we face these growing challenges, CCS remains committed to:

·  Expanding our food box program to meet increasing demand

·       Strengthening partnerships with local organizations

·       Developing innovative solutions for housing stability

·       Enhancing case management services

·       Advocating systemic changes to address poverty

How Our Community Can Help

The dramatic increase in needs requires a community-wide response:

Immediate Needs

Food donations - especially protein-rich foods

Warm clothing and blankets

Personal hygiene items

Financial contributions for emergency assistance

Advocacy

Share our story

Support affordable housing initiatives

Promote community awareness

Engage in local policy discussions

Together, We Make a Difference

Every contribution, whether time, resources, or advocacy, helps us continue our 70-year legacy of service. As Lane County faces growing challenges, CCS remains committed to our mission of loving thy neighbor and helping families move from crisis to stability.