2025 Monthly highlights
Resource Center Supports Mental Wellness
Working Families Tax Credit: Get Money Back This Tax Season!
Working Families Tax Credit: Get Money Back This Tax Season!
As we begin 2025, January—designated as Mental Wellness Month—presents an ideal opportunity to focus on our emotional health. After the holiday season's whirlwind, this natural pause allows us to turn our attention inward. While we often prioritize physical health, nurturing our mental well-being deserves equal attention.
Many assume menta
As we begin 2025, January—designated as Mental Wellness Month—presents an ideal opportunity to focus on our emotional health. After the holiday season's whirlwind, this natural pause allows us to turn our attention inward. While we often prioritize physical health, nurturing our mental well-being deserves equal attention.
Many assume mental wellness means maintaining constant happiness, but true emotional health encompasses much more. As humans, we naturally experience a spectrum of feelings—from joy to sadness, excitement to fear. Rather than suppressing these emotions, wellness means acknowledging and understanding our full emotional range.
Sometimes, maintaining emotional equilibrium requires professional guidance. The Community Wellness Program (CWP), offered through the collaboration of San Juan County, the Orcas Community Resource Center and a team of eight contracted therapists, makes mental healthcare accessible through low-cost counseling services for qualifying uninsured or under-insured Orcas Island residents. The program offers up to 12 sessions with copayments on a sliding scale, ensuring financial circumstances don't prevent anyone from seeking help.
The Resource Center provides additional support through:
- Mental health and substance abuse referrals
- Assistance with health insurance applications
- Connection to specialized care and treatment options
This Mental Wellness Month, consider taking steps toward better emotional health. Whether through professional counseling, personal self-care practices, or mindfulness techniques, investing in your mental well-being can enhance resilience, reduce stress, and create a more balanced life.
Want to learn more? Contact the Orcas Community Resource Center (orcascrc.org) to discover how their programs and services can support your journey toward improved mental health. Your well-being matters, and resources are available right here in our community to help you thrive.
Working Families Tax Credit: Get Money Back This Tax Season!
Working Families Tax Credit: Get Money Back This Tax Season!
Working Families Tax Credit: Get Money Back This Tax Season!
Great news for Washington residents! The Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) is here to put money back in your pocket. If you worked in 2024, you may qualify for a refund of up to $1,290—helping to ease financial burdens.
This credit is designed to support low- and moderate-income individuals and families, ensuring that hard-working Washing
Great news for Washington residents! The Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) is here to put money back in your pocket. If you worked in 2024, you may qualify for a refund of up to $1,290—helping to ease financial burdens.
This credit is designed to support low- and moderate-income individuals and families, ensuring that hard-working Washingtonians get some relief. Since its launch in 2023, the WFTC has provided over 359,000 refunds totaling more than $263.4 million—making a real impact across the state.
Who’s Eligible?
Have a valid SSN or ITIN
Lived in Washington for at least 183 days in 2024 (more than half the year)
Are between 25 and 65 years old OR have a qualifying child
Filed a federal tax return for 2024
Even if you don’t owe taxes, you can still apply and receive the credit if you meet the requirements!
The WFTC helps offset the cost of everyday essentials like food, rent, and transportation. It’s modeled after the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which has been widely recognized as one of the most effective tools for reducing poverty. This is real money that can make a difference for working families living in Washington.
Applications open February 1, 2025 for the 2024 tax year. You can also apply for past credits from 2022 and 2023 if you were eligible but didn’t claim them. The application process is simple—just visit the Washington Department of Revenue website (WFTC.wa.gov) for details.
If you have questions or need assistance (available in English and Spanish), contact the Orcas Community Resource Center to help guide you through the application process.
Don’t leave money on the table! Check your eligibility and apply to claim your refund. If you or someone you know qualifies, spread the word and help more Washington families benefit from this important program.
Local Food Access: Nourishing Our Community
Building a Stronger Community: The Women of the Resource Center
Building a Stronger Community: The Women of the Resource Center
Access to healthy, affordable food is essential for a thriving community. Here on Orcas Island, we're fortunate to have a robust network of programs and resources designed to ensure that no islander goes hungry. March is National Nutrition Month, and what better time to highlight the multiple options available to help stretch budgets and
Access to healthy, affordable food is essential for a thriving community. Here on Orcas Island, we're fortunate to have a robust network of programs and resources designed to ensure that no islander goes hungry. March is National Nutrition Month, and what better time to highlight the multiple options available to help stretch budgets and access nutritious meals.
The Orcas Community Resource Center is committed to helping islanders navigate these resources and connect with the programs that best fit their needs. Some programs are based on income eligibility, while others are open to everyone in our community. Program information and details can be found below.
Daily/Weekly Community Meals
Community Lunch at the Orcas Island Community Church
Weekly on Tuesdays, 12:00-1:30pm. Come one, come all to enjoy a no-cost lunch. It's more than a meal, it's an opportunity to connect with our community! To volunteer to serve or bring food, please email communitylunch@orcascrc.org.
Senior Lunch at the Orcas Senior Center
Mondays and Wednesdays, 11:30am-12:30pm. $5 for 60+, $10 for under 60. Learn more by calling 360-376-2677 or at orcasseniors.org/nutrition/
Benefits Programs
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
Monthly food benefits usable at grocery stores and farmers markets. As an added feature, SNAP Market Match doubles benefits for fruits and vegetables. For more information call 877-501-2233 or visit washingtonconnection.org/home/.
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
For pregnant women, new moms, and children under 5 - includes Farmers Market Nutrition Program benefits. Learn more by calling 360-378-4474 or at sanjuancountywa.gov/455/WIC-Program.
Specialized Services
Meals on Wheels
Home delivery: Monday, Wednesday, Friday. Learn more by calling 360-370-7525 or email stevenz@sanjuancountywa.gov.
Orcas Island Food Bank
Nourishing current and future generations of our community through food access, education, and advocacy. Offering no-cost nutritious food weekly for qualifying residents. Visit orcasislandfoodbank.org for eligibility and hours of operation.
Local Food Access Initiatives
Orcas Community Resource Center Food Access Program
Simple hot meals for those without adequate cooking facilities. Available Monday - Friday during office hours. Learn more by calling 360-376-3184 or email info@orcascrc.org.
Fresh Bucks Program
Up to $20 benefit per purchase for qualifying residents. Partnership of Orcas Food Co-op, Resource Center, and SJ County. Learn more at orcasfood.coop/fresh-bucks/.
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program
For purchase of fresh, healthy food at local farmers markets. Program participants receive a card to use at approved farm vendors and farmers markets. For more info call 360-378-4474.
Orcas Food Co-op FLOWER Program
10% discount for qualifying member-owners. Membership available for as little as $2/month.
Learn more at orcasfood.coop/flower-program/.
This network of programs ensures that all community members have multiple options for accessing healthy, affordable food, while also supporting local agriculture and community connections. If you’re not sure where to start or need assistance, contact the Resource Center at 360-376-3184 or info@orcascrc.org.
Building a Stronger Community: The Women of the Resource Center
Building a Stronger Community: The Women of the Resource Center
Building a Stronger Community: The Women of the Resource Center
Leadership in Action
At the core of the Orcas Community Resource Center's mission to foster a healthy community by helping islanders thrive is a powerhouse duo: Executive Director, Erin O'Dell and Board Chair, Patricia Benton. Together, they bring vision, expertise, and passion to guide this vital community organization. Their shared commi
Leadership in Action
At the core of the Orcas Community Resource Center's mission to foster a healthy community by helping islanders thrive is a powerhouse duo: Executive Director, Erin O'Dell and Board Chair, Patricia Benton. Together, they bring vision, expertise, and passion to guide this vital community organization. Their shared commitment to the community ensures the Resource Center continues to operate as a beacon of hope, guidance, and support.
A Team Committed to Well-Being
A remarkable group of board and staff, 86% of whom are women, bring valuable perspectives and experience to their work at the Resource Center. Among them are accomplished world travelers, dedicated mothers, business owners, and professionals from many different industries - all united in their commitment to supporting island residents. Whether it’s through mentorship, advocacy, or program development, they play an instrumental role in the well-being of islanders. Their variety of experience enables the organization to understand and respond to the complex needs of our island community with empathy and insight.
Programs That Make a Difference
Through its comprehensive range of services, the Resource Center addresses both immediate needs and long-term stability:
- Housing Support helps islanders maintain stable housing through rent and utility assistance, while also offering household and hygiene products.
- Health & Medical Navigation service ensures community members can access vital healthcare and understand their options.
- Food Access removes barriers to meeting essential nutritional needs.
- Financial Literacy education empowers individuals to build stronger financial futures.
The Resource Center's holistic approach emphasizes dignity and respect, ensuring that every community member feels welcomed and supported.
Community Partnerships
The Resource Center's effectiveness is amplified through strong partnerships with local organizations, healthcare providers, and community groups. These collaborative relationships enable the organization to leverage resources efficiently and create comprehensive support networks. Under O'Dell and Benton’s leadership, these partnerships have grown stronger, expanding the organization's ability to serve the community effectively.
"Strong community partnerships are at the heart of everything we do, and many of the most impactful collaborations are led by women. From healthcare to housing, education to entrepreneurship, women-led businesses and organizations play a critical role in strengthening our community’s support network. By working together, we expand opportunities, increase access to essential services, and build a more resilient future for all islanders." – Erin O’Dell, Executive Director, Orcas Community Resource Center
Looking to the Future
With deep roots in the community and hope for the future, the Resource Center stands ready to meet today’s needs and tomorrow's challenges. As our landscape continues to evolve, the team remains committed to their core values of open-mindedness, collaboration, respect, and compassion. Through this dynamic hub of support, the Resource Center continues to strengthen the fabric of our island community - one family, one individual, one connection at a time.
Want to Learn More?
Want to learn more about the Resource Center and the work they do? They’d love to connect with you! Visit orcascrc.org to learn more or email info@orcascrc.org to schedule a personal tour. See firsthand how they’re making a difference in our community!