2024 Monthly highlights
Diaper Bank Program
Athletic Assistance Fund
Athletic Assistance Fund
The onset of the new year brings a valuable new program to the Orcas Community Resource Center. Thanks to a generous grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce, we are excited to introduce our Diaper Bank program. Families meeting eligibility criteria and having children under the age of 3 can now apply to receive diapers, wip
The onset of the new year brings a valuable new program to the Orcas Community Resource Center. Thanks to a generous grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce, we are excited to introduce our Diaper Bank program. Families meeting eligibility criteria and having children under the age of 3 can now apply to receive diapers, wipes and ointment without incurring any costs.
Diaper needs are a growing problem in our country. According to new data from The NDBN Diaper Check 2023: Diaper Insecurity among U.S. Children and Families, 1 in 2 families in the United States cannot afford enough diapers to keep their infant or child clean, dry, and healthy. These infants and toddlers are more prone to uncomfortable rashes and urinary tract infections, resulting in increased visits to the doctor.
In addition, roughly 3 in 5 parents are forced to skip work or school at times due to financial constraints preventing them from providing the necessary diapers for their babies in childcare. Ensuring access to clean diapers emerges as an essential requirement for every baby and toddler.
Through the Resource Center’s Diaper Bank program, families are eligible to receive an allotment of diapers and wipes per month. Families in need can apply through the link below by the 20th of each month to pick up diapers during business hours after the 1st of the following month.
Nationwide, studies have found that diaper need is a significant contributor to postpartum depression. 1 out of 3 parents cut back on basic essentials to afford diapers for their children. Babies will use an estimated 6,000 diapers during their first 2 years of life. Families expressing a need for diapers represent a diverse range of ages, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Considering babies 2-4 months old can use up to 1o diapers a day and babies 12 months and up can use around 210 diapers a month - that adds up!
The Resource Center’s Diaper Bank program is one more step in our mission to foster a healthy community by connecting Orcas Islanders with the services needed to thrive and achieve equitable well-being. We’re here to help! The little actions of many have a ripple effect when we work together. Help us spread the word!
Athletic Assistance Fund
Athletic Assistance Fund
Athletic Assistance Fund
Spring sports season is here and registration is now open for track & field, baseball, softball, and golf. The rewards of youth sports extend beyond the field! Participation can lead to immediate and long-term benefits for youth, families, and communities. As the National Council of Youth Sports notes, “Youth sports is a proven strategy t
Spring sports season is here and registration is now open for track & field, baseball, softball, and golf. The rewards of youth sports extend beyond the field! Participation can lead to immediate and long-term benefits for youth, families, and communities. As the National Council of Youth Sports notes, “Youth sports is a proven strategy to provide needed physical, social, emotional and leadership outcomes.”
Nearly two-thirds of parents say youth sports pose a financial hardship on their family. The Orcas Community Resource Center and the OI Booster Club aim to remove that barrier for our island athletes. Partnering together, we provide support for families who need help to cover school athletic expenses such as shoes, gear, and special equipment through the Athletic Assistance Fund.
Using sports to build community and promote healthy living is highly beneficial on multiple levels. Sports have the power to bring people together, creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie among participants and spectators alike. Expanding opportunities for youth to play sports protects and improves mental health while teaching important life skills.
If sports-related expenses are a stretch for your family, please consider applying through the link below and a staff member from the Resource Center will contact you. Households will need to reapply for athletic assistance each season. Additionally, recipients of Free & Reduced lunch are eligible to have sports registration fees waived.
Don’t let costs of fees or equipment be a barrier! Whether you are an experienced player or just starting out, seize this opportunity to embark on a journey of skill development, teamwork and unforgettable moments!
Washington Tax Credit
Athletic Assistance Fund
Washington Tax Credit
Did you know Washington workers may be eligible for up to $1255 back with the new Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC)? This is a relatively new credit and available to applicants who have lived in Washington a minimum of 183 days, are at least 25 and under 65 years of age, OR have a qualifying child in 2023.
Applicants must have filed a 20
Did you know Washington workers may be eligible for up to $1255 back with the new Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC)? This is a relatively new credit and available to applicants who have lived in Washington a minimum of 183 days, are at least 25 and under 65 years of age, OR have a qualifying child in 2023.
Applicants must have filed a 2023 federal tax return with a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
Want to file your taxes for free online? Check out Direct File, a new tool from the IRS, at directfile.irs.gov. Another option allowing taxpayers to file for no cost on their own or with a virtual tax preparer can be found at myfreetaxes.com.
Tax season can bring an important boost of extra cash for low to moderate income families through credits like the WFTC and the Earned Income Tax Credit. Combined, these two tax credits put an average of $2,926 back into the pockets of households with lower incomes each year. That is a total of $895 million in Washington! Still, last year, fewer than half of estimated eligible households applied.
Online applications are open now! Did you miss applying for the credit last year? Don’t worry - you’ll be able to submit an application for 2022.
For more information or to see if you qualify, visit WFTC.wa.gov or call 360-763-7300. Assistance is available in both English and Spanish. or call 360-763-7300. Assistance is available in both English and Spanish.
Orcas Money Smart
Kindergarten Transition
Washington Tax Credit
April is National Financial Literacy Month and the Resource Center is excited to share that our Orcas Money Smart financial literacy program is nearing completion of its second year. Throughout this nine month program, volunteer mentors teach participants the basics of budgeting, savings, banking, housing decisions, debt, credit, disaster
April is National Financial Literacy Month and the Resource Center is excited to share that our Orcas Money Smart financial literacy program is nearing completion of its second year. Throughout this nine month program, volunteer mentors teach participants the basics of budgeting, savings, banking, housing decisions, debt, credit, disaster preparedness & more.
In addition to group classes, each participant also meets with a mentor to enhance the learning process and assist with setting and achieving SMART goals. The “SMART” in SMART goals stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. This approach helps to set clear timelines and track progress. Participants also have the opportunity to earn as they learn by successfully attending training, mentor meetings & working to complete goals.
Surveying our current Orcas Money Smart participants, all reported that they have become more financially knowledgeable and 90% of participants mentioned they feel better equipped to manage their own finances. One participant expressed, “Thank you SO much for hosting this opportunity for our island community!”
The Resource Center also recently took time to dive a little deeper with some questions for our Orcas Money Smart volunteer mentors about their involvement in the program. Nick Johns shared, “I wanted to become a mentor for the program because I believe that money skills have positive ripple effects for our local economy. Our program participants will be able to share their knowledge and success with their family, friends, and fellows.”
Volunteer mentor Brett Lensing, mentioned he felt “fortunate to be a part of an engaged group of class participants working to set goals and activities in line with their financial success. It's been a privilege to support Orcas Money Smart as a volunteer mentor and be part of the program.”
Orcas Money Smart class starts annually each fall. We are actively seeking both participants and mentors. If you would like to participate in this incredible learning opportunity, email info@orcascrc.org.
Kindergarten Transition
Kindergarten Transition
Kindergarten Transition
Continuing a fifteen-year tradition, the Orcas Community Resource Center joyfully hosted Orcas' annual Kindergarten Transition event, honoring children as they prepare to embark on their kindergarten journey this fall. Regardless of which school they will attend, all kinder aged children were invited to attend the fun-filled evening.
Surr
Continuing a fifteen-year tradition, the Orcas Community Resource Center joyfully hosted Orcas' annual Kindergarten Transition event, honoring children as they prepare to embark on their kindergarten journey this fall. Regardless of which school they will attend, all kinder aged children were invited to attend the fun-filled evening.
Surrounded by familiar faces and new friends, families participated in learning stations designed to focus on reading, math, art, writing, fine and gross motor skills and more. Preschool and kindergarten teachers enthusiastically facilitated activities, empowering families to grasp educational concepts to practice at home.
“Thanks for a wonderful event! My timid daughter came home buzzing with excitement for kindergarten in the fall.”
The memorable occasion took place at the inviting Parish Hall and Labyrinth, where the Orcas Island Library warmly greeted attendees offering them the opportunity to sign up for their very own library card. Soon-to-be kindergarteners left with plenty of smiles and backpacks brimming with supplies to support skill-building over the summer months. Additionally, each child was presented with a Darvill’s gift voucher to expand their personal library with new books.
To complete the experience, guests were treated to a delicious taco dinner prepared by Johanna’s Salvadorian Catering. This valuable opportunity to ease students’ up-and-coming transition is a no-cost annual event sponsored by the Early Childhood Education & Assistance Program (ECEAP), Orcas Community Resource Center and a generous local donor.
Community Wellness
Kindergarten Transition
Kindergarten Transition
June is Great Outdoors Month, a time to celebrate the beauty and wonder of nature, explore the great outdoors, and appreciate the natural world around us.
Whether it's hiking in a national park, camping under the stars, fishing in a serene lake, or simply enjoying a picnic in a local park, Great Outdoors Month offers endless opportunitie
June is Great Outdoors Month, a time to celebrate the beauty and wonder of nature, explore the great outdoors, and appreciate the natural world around us.
Whether it's hiking in a national park, camping under the stars, fishing in a serene lake, or simply enjoying a picnic in a local park, Great Outdoors Month offers endless opportunities to connect with nature. It’s also a time to reflect on the importance of environmental stewardship and take steps to preserve our natural landscapes for future generations.
Engaging in outdoor activities not only provides physical health benefits but also boosts mental well-being by reducing stress and enhancing mood. It's a chance to unplug from the digital world, breathe in fresh air, and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Let's embrace the spirit of adventure! Join us on June 30th for a “Walking Together for Our Health” community wellness event at Cascade Lake in Moran State Park. The walk around Cascade Lake Trail is just under 3 miles of gentle ups and downs along with occasional harder inclines.
Blood pressure checks, snacks, drawings and prizes will be available for participants. Organized by the Resource Center’s LatinX Advisory Group, the event is 2-5pm and free for all ages with no registration required.
Community Dental
Community Dental
Community Dental
Oral health is crucial for overall well-being, extending far beyond a bright smile. Maintaining good oral hygiene prevents common dental issues such as cavities and gum disease, which can significantly impact daily life. Furthermore, oral health is closely linked to systemic health; conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory
Oral health is crucial for overall well-being, extending far beyond a bright smile. Maintaining good oral hygiene prevents common dental issues such as cavities and gum disease, which can significantly impact daily life. Furthermore, oral health is closely linked to systemic health; conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections have been associated with poor oral hygiene. Access to dental care can have far-reaching benefits for individuals and communities as a whole.
Community dental clinics are vital for ensuring equitable availability of oral healthcare, particularly in underserved areas. After logistics prevented the Medical Teams International dental van from continuing to operate on Orcas Island, establishing an alternative became imperative.
The formation of the new Community Dental Clinic was a collaborative effort involving several key organizations; Orcas Community Resource Center, Orcas Health Care District, Orcas Island Community Foundation, and San Juan County. The Community Dental Clinic promotes oral health and well-being by serving islanders on Medicaid or without dental insurance who cannot afford dental care.
Since its first day of operation on May 10th, 2024, the clinic has served 34 people and has approximately 200 on the waiting list. Many thanks to Marsha Waunch for her VIP volunteer work, the Orcas Island Fire Department for temporarily hosting the clinic (a more permanent location is being sought out for the fall), and the clinic dentist, Dr. Jessica Dubek, who brings her staff from Bellingham under the non profit DentALL.
Upcoming dates for Orcas Island (*denotes bilingual clinics):
August: 16, 17*, 30, 31
September: 13, 27, 28
October: 4, 5, 25, 26*
Ultimately, community dental clinics help bridge the gap in healthcare disparities, promoting healthier communities and improving quality of life for islanders. Interested individuals must submit an application at docs.sanjuanco.com/Forms/DentalProgram.
Back to School
Community Dental
Community Dental
With the month of August upon us, the start of school is quickly approaching! If you are a family with school-aged kids, check out these resources to help you kick off the year smoothly.
Sports Physical Clinic
Wednesday, August 7, 2024
If you are not able to schedule with your primary care physician, local doctors will host a sports physical
With the month of August upon us, the start of school is quickly approaching! If you are a family with school-aged kids, check out these resources to help you kick off the year smoothly.
Sports Physical Clinic
Wednesday, August 7, 2024
If you are not able to schedule with your primary care physician, local doctors will host a sports physical clinic to ensure students are healthy and ready to participate in sports. Thanks to their generosity, there is no fee for this clinic; the docs suggest a donation to the Booster Club if you are able (https://www.orcasboosters.org/donate).
Time: 3:30-5:30pm
Place: Orcas Island High School (track-side entrance)
Sign-Up REQUIRED: register HERE. If you have questions please contact the OI Booster Club at oiboosters@gmail.com.
Immunization Clinic
Walk-in clinic (for children under the age of 19) - no registration required.
3-6pm, Friday August 30th at the Orcas School Cafeteria.
No one will be denied services due to inability to pay. Call 360.378.4474 for more details.
Athletic Fees Assistance Program
The Orcas Community Resource Center and OI Boosters have partnered together to support families in need of assistance with athletic expenses. If sports-related expenses for your student-athlete are a hurdle, please email the OI Booster Club at oiboosters@gmail.com or the Resource Center at info@orcascrc.org.
Apply for Free & Reduced school meals
Contact the OISD office to see if your household qualifies for free or reduced-price school meals - you may also be eligible for decreased fees to participate in sports or other school programs.
Teen Tent at the Orcas Island Food Bank
Throughout the school year, the Food Bank encourages students to stop by their Teen Tent to grab a quick snack or lunch item. Age-appropriate food items are offered Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 11am-1pm.
Funhouse After School Program
Starting Wednesday, September 4th - for students in grades K-5. Funhouse staff pick up students from school, then head to The Funhouse for group games, activities, and free-play. This program runs Monday-Friday, 3:15-5:30pm, with an early start time of 2:15pm on Wednesdays for the public school and Fridays for the christian school. Pre-registration required, sliding scale, scholarships available.
Orcas Island Park & Rec Fall Programs Start SOON!
Keep your eyes open for upcoming programs and activities at orcasparkandrec.org!
College students - fill out the FAFSA
Students planning on attending college in the fall of 2025 can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Apply at studentaid.gov to be considered for federal financial aid. Students must apply no later than June 30th, 2025.
Get ready for winter!
With fall approaching, if winter gear is beyond your budget, coats will be available through the Resource Center’s Coates Closet program.
Stay tuned!
Harm Reduction
Community Dental
You're Vote, Our Island
September marks National Recovery Month, a time to raise awareness about substance use treatment, mental health, and the ongoing challenges faced by individuals on their journey to recovery.
The Orcas Community Resource Center is committed to supporting community members through accessible resources and services aimed at promoting safety
September marks National Recovery Month, a time to raise awareness about substance use treatment, mental health, and the ongoing challenges faced by individuals on their journey to recovery.
The Orcas Community Resource Center is committed to supporting community members through accessible resources and services aimed at promoting safety and well-being.
In line with its mission, the Resource Center maintains a Harm Reduction Cabinet, stocked with essential tools designed to prevent overdose, reduce harm, and promote sexual health.
The cabinet, located at the center, provides free access to:
- Fentanyl test strips, helping users identify the presence of fentanyl in substances and potentially preventing fatal overdoses.
- Condoms, to promote safe sexual practices and prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Naloxone (Narcan), a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses when administered in time.
The Resource Center has distributed approximately 20 units of naloxone over the past year, and there are still plenty on hand for those in need. These resources are available to all members of the community, no questions asked.
By offering these services, the Resource Center actively contributes to reducing the risks associated with substance use and ensures that individuals feel supported and empowered in their recovery efforts.
National Recovery Month serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding, compassion, and community involvement in helping individuals reclaim their lives.
Through the Harm Reduction Cabinet, substance abuse treatment referrals, and many other essential programs, the OCRC continues to be a vital lifeline for those in need on Orcas Island.
Learn how to respond to an opioid overdose in 4 minutes. - How to identify the signs of an opioid overdose - Who to call during an overdose - How to administer Naloxone (Narcan) here: nextdistro.org/resources-collection/narcan-training-video-next-distro.
You're Vote, Our Island
Meeting Essential Hygiene Needs on Orcas Island
You're Vote, Our Island
At the Orcas Community Resource Center, our mission is to support and strengthen our island community. As an organization dedicated to providing essential services and fostering community well-being, we understand firsthand the impact of local policies on our residents' lives.
The Resource Center is at the forefront of addressing critical
At the Orcas Community Resource Center, our mission is to support and strengthen our island community. As an organization dedicated to providing essential services and fostering community well-being, we understand firsthand the impact of local policies on our residents' lives.
The Resource Center is at the forefront of addressing critical issues on Orcas Island, from housing support to food security. Our work has shown us how local decisions directly affect the daily lives of our neighbors.
We believe in the transformative power of voting. While it may seem like a simple act, casting your ballot has profound implications for our island's future.
As residents of Orcas Island, our votes carry exceptional weight. Our small, tight-knit community amplifies the impact of each ballot cast. When you participate in elections, you're not just expressing your personal views—you're advocating for your neighbors, family, and future generations.
Your vote helps shape decisions on vital matters like ferry services, affordable housing, and healthcare, education, and environmental conservation, ensuring they align with our community's needs and values.
The act of voting reflects a deep commitment to Orcas Island's future. It's a powerful way to protect what makes our community special and to voice our collective concerns. In our small population, every vote truly counts and could be the deciding factor on critical local issues.
As we approach the upcoming election, let's embrace our civic duty with enthusiasm. Voting is more than a right—it's a gift that allows us to actively participate in crafting our island's future. By participating, we contribute to the strength and vibrancy of Orcas Island, ensuring our unique voice is heard.
Let's unite in this vital process, using our votes to safeguard and enhance the character of our beloved island home. Together, we can continue to shape a thriving, healthy Orcas Island that reflects our values and aspirations.
Our election date this year is November 5, 2024. The deadline for registering to vote online and by mail is October 28th, although you can still register up to and including on November 5th if you visit a San Juan County election office in person. To register to vote or check your registration status, visit vote.org or vote.wa.gov.
Honoring Our Heroes
Meeting Essential Hygiene Needs on Orcas Island
Meeting Essential Hygiene Needs on Orcas Island
As November ushers in Veterans Day, Orcas Island stands united in its dedication to those who've served our nation. This small island community exemplifies the power of local support for veterans, offering a tapestry of services that weave together care, respect, and practical assistance.
The Heart of Service: American Legion Post #93
At th
As November ushers in Veterans Day, Orcas Island stands united in its dedication to those who've served our nation. This small island community exemplifies the power of local support for veterans, offering a tapestry of services that weave together care, respect, and practical assistance.
The Heart of Service: American Legion Post #93
At the core of Orcas Island's veteran support network stands the American Legion Post #93. More than just a local chapter, it's a beacon of hope and a hub of activity for veterans year-round. The Legion's mission resonates through every initiative: enhancing the well-being of veterans, their families, and the community through mutual helpfulness.
The Legion will be sponsoring a Veterans Resource Fair on November 16, 2004 from 10am-2pm. This event provides an excellent opportunity for veterans and their families to learn more about the various services available in the area. Attendees are encouraged to stop by and explore the wealth of resources and support offered to our local heroes.
A Legacy of Support: Sons of the American Legion (SOAL)
The island's commitment to veterans extends to the next generation through the Sons of the American Legion (SOAL). This group, composed of descendants of Legion-eligible veterans, has made a significant impact on the community's youngest members. Their annual Shoe Program, in partnership with the Orcas Community Resource Center, provided 78 children with new footwear this fall. As one grateful parent shared:
"The SOAL Shoe program was a lifesaver when I learned about unexpected PE shoe requirements for my kids. Living on Orcas, we can't just run to the store. The program not only helped us out but made my daughter's day with sparkly star shoes!"
Nourishing Body and Soul: American Legion Auxiliary
The American Legion Auxiliary brings warmth to veterans' lives through their monthly meal program. What began as a modest effort serving 12 meals has blossomed into a cherished tradition, now providing 30 homemade meals each month. These meals are more than sustenance; they're a heartfelt reminder of the community's gratitude.
Orcas Community Resource Center: A Vital Link
The Resource Center serves as a crucial connector, offering a range of services tailored to veterans' needs:
- Referrals to the San Juan County Veterans Advisory Board
- Distribution of holiday grocery cards from the American Legion
- Provision of trigger locks for firearm safety
- Coordination with SOAL for the annual Shoe Program
San Juan County Veterans Advisory Board: A Broader Support Network
Veterans on Orcas Island benefit from the support network of the San Juan County Veterans Advisory Board. This county-level organization (accessible at www.sanjuancountywa.gov/575/Veterans-Advisory-Board) offers many resources and services.
National Resources
For additional information about veterans resources beyond our local community, visit the US Department of Veterans Affairs website at www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/providers/reference.asp#Resources. This comprehensive resource provides a wealth of information on national programs and services available to veterans.
Join the Cause
The spirit of service that defines Orcas Island's approach to veteran support is open to all. The American Legion Post #93, Auxiliary Unit #93, and Sons of the American Legion Squadron #93 welcome new members eager to make a difference. Whether through participation in fundraisers or direct involvement in programs, there are numerous ways to contribute. To learn more about joining the American Legion family, call 360-376-4987.
On Orcas Island, every day is an opportunity to honor our veterans. Through the combined efforts of these organizations and the broader community, the island ensures that those who served are supported and never forgotten.
Meeting Essential Hygiene Needs on Orcas Island
Meeting Essential Hygiene Needs on Orcas Island
Meeting Essential Hygiene Needs on Orcas Island
Basic hygiene products are fundamental to health and dignity, yet many struggle to afford essential items like soap, shampoo, deodorant, and laundry soap. The Orcas Community Resource Center addresses this need through our Coates Cabinet hygiene bank, ensuring community members have access to vital personal care items. By removing financi
Basic hygiene products are fundamental to health and dignity, yet many struggle to afford essential items like soap, shampoo, deodorant, and laundry soap. The Orcas Community Resource Center addresses this need through our Coates Cabinet hygiene bank, ensuring community members have access to vital personal care items. By removing financial barriers to these necessities, together we help create a more equitable and healthier community.
Good hygiene practices, particularly handwashing, are crucial for preventing the spread of illness and maintaining public health. This is especially important during winter months when diseases spread more readily.
As December marks National Handwashing Month, we're reminded that access to basic hygiene supplies—something many take for granted—can significantly impact community wellness. Regular access to personal care items not only prevents illness but also supports mental well-being and social confidence.
The Resource Center has expanded its services through several initiatives:
- Operating the Coates Cabinet hygiene bank weekly, which served a record number of households in November
- Advocating for Installation of a soap dispenser at the Eastsound shower facilities through local partnerships
- Providing shower tokens and towels (when available) for those who need them
- Working with community partners to identify and address gaps in hygiene accessibility
These services are particularly important for community members experiencing housing insecurity. Providing access to basic hygiene products helps maintain personal dignity and well-being. The Resource Center recognizes this is about more than cleanliness—it's about equipping people with the supplies needed to participate fully in community life with confidence.
One program participant recently shared, “Thanks to Coates Cabinet, I can provide the essentials for my family during challenging times. It's truly a blessing to have this support here on Orcas."
You can support this essential program during the 2024 GiveOrcas campaign, running December 3rd-12th with a donation here: https://oicf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/grant?grant_id=35675&blm_aid=0.
In addition, the Resource Center will be hosting a table at the Village Green Tree Lighting from 4-7pm on Friday, December 6th. Stop by and make a GiveOrcas donation or drop off one or more new hygiene items. Our most requested items:
- laundry pods
- dish soap
- baby wipes
- toothpaste
- Kleenex
- toilet paper
- paper towels
Your contributions help ensure that no one in our community goes without necessary personal care items during the challenging winter months and beyond. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference in our neighbors' lives and strengthens the fabric of our island community. Stay tuned for more ways to get involved!