CPI Newsletter: Fall 2025
Happy Fall! In our latest newsletter, you will find the following information, activities, and resources:
PA Specialist Corner: Renew Your OHP Benefits to Avoid Gaps in DD Services
PA Specialist Corner: Changes to SNAP Benefits (Food Stamps)
Fall and Halloween Activities in the Portland Metro area
Winter and Holiday Activities in the Portland Metro area
Message from the Director, Jennifer Santiago
Welcome Fall! As we move into the cooler months, it’s a good time to remember that just like the seasons, everything changes. Fall represents a transition to shorter, darker, and colder days, and soon after, spring will bring us warmer, longer, and sunnier days.
I want to give some updates about what we know about HR1 (also known as the big beautiful bill) and what it means to the people we support. Oregon is putting in a lot of effort to prepare for the changes that will affect people in the state.
The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) gave an update earlier this week, and while disability services will not experience a direct change, the changes may still impact areas of people’s lives. The biggest changes happening now involve SNAP benefits (also known as food stamps) and energy assistance for some people.
The most important thing for people supported by Community Pathways right now, involves making sure individuals respond to redetermination paperwork. (Read PA Specialist Corner: Renew Your OHP Benefits below for more information.) We are also watching a small group of people who are eligible for Medicaid under MAGI or EPD (employed persons with disabilities). These individuals could fall into a category more directly impacted. Oregon is seeking clarification from the Federal Government on these matters. To find out more about the current changes related to SNAP and the impacts, read PA Specialist Corner: Changes to SNAP Benefits (Food Stamps).
HR1 SNAP changes also involve shifting costs from the Federal Government to the State. This means Oregon will need to come up with additional funds (through taxes, or reduced services) to cover those new costs. How Oregon handles this will be determined by Oregon’s legislature, which is already involved in discussions with state leaders. The next legislative session is a short session, and starts February 2, 2026.
We recognize that people may also be concerned about the federal government shutdown that started on Tuesday, October 1st, since about 65-70% of funding for DD services are matched by the federal government. ODHS leaders reassured us that Oregon can fund all services through the end of October and many services beyond that date. Social Security payments are expected to continue uninterrupted, and Community Pathways will stay open and keep doing our work as usual during this time.
Find more information
On Oregon’s DHS website, you can find the following information and udpates:
Stay connected and keep us updated
The two most important things you can do:
Keep your current address up-to-date with us at all times.
Let us know if you get information that you may not understand.
Contact your Personal Agent directly, or email us at info@communitypath.org or call our office at 503-935-5243.
We are very grateful to be here and serve this community!
Jennifer Santiago
Executive Director
Introducing Our New “PA Specialist Corner” Blog Post Series
At Community Pathways, we’re always working to make sure that the people we support have access to the information they need. That’s why we’re excited to launch our new PA Specialist Corner series. In this series, we will share specialized knowledge and information with customers, families, Personal Support Workers (PSWs), providers, and other community partners to help everyone feel supported and connected.
PA Specialist Corner: Renew Your OHP Benefits to Avoid Gaps in DD Services
In this edition of the PA Specialist Corner series, Christine Xthona offers a clear, step-by-step guide on how to renew your OHP benefits. This simple guide includes information on:
What to expect when you get a renewal notice.
How to respond to your renewal notice.
Tips for avoiding delays, so that you can stay covered and keep receiving these important services.
PA Specialist Corner: Changes to SNAP Benefits (Food Stamps)
Starting September 1st, the federal government is establishing work requirements for people who get support through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps. While these rules are already taking effect, the federal government is still working on providing guidance on these changes.
Customer Spotlight: Jesse's Story
Over the summer, we connected with one of our long-time CPI customers, Jesse, to learn about some of his recent accomplishments, including his experience participating and mentoring in the Special Olympics Oregon. In his interview, Jesse also talks about how he got started with his YouTube channel and gives a special shout-out to his fellow D&D fans.
Join a Job Fair at PSU on October 28th
Are you looking for a job or want to learn more about inclusive hiring? Check out this upcoming job fair at Portland State University on October 28th!
When: October 28th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Where: PSU (Portland State University)
What: NDEAM PSU Job Fair — a great chance for job seekers and employers to connect during National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
New Spanish Language Resource Guide
The Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities (OCDD) is proud to announce a new Spanish Language Resource Guide for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
This guide is the result of years of collaboration with Spanish-speaking Latinx community leaders, many of whom are also family members. It provides information on services, resources, and supports available across Oregon, making it easier for Spanish-speaking families to navigate the I/DD system.
The guide is available as a free downloadable PDF. If you would like a printed copy of a county section, contact info@ocdd.org or call 971-225-3659.
Community Resource Fairs
Community Health Fair at IRCO
Join IRCO and the Coalition of Community Health Clinics for a free, inclusive health fair. At this event, you’ll find health screenings, practical resources, and other support from local service providers.
Event Details:
Location: IRCO - 10323 NE Glisan St. Portland, OR 97220
Date: Saturday, November 1
Time: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Learn more about the Community Health Fair and see which service providers are going.
Winter Preparedness Fair
As the colder months approach, it’s important to be prepared. Join the Community Services Network to learn about essential tips and resources for keeping yourself and your family safe and warm this winter.
Event Details:
Location: Parkrose High School - 12003 NE Shaver St. Portland, OR 97220
Date: Saturday, November 15
Time: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Learn more about the Winter Preparedness Fair
Free Emergency Preparedness Training
Join Upstream Access’ next Prep-ability Peer Cohort for a free training on emergency preparedness for people with disabilities! Participants who complete the full training will have resources and three solar-powered items by the end!
The cohort meets on the third Tuesday of the month from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and it lasts three months.
The next cohort will be meeting:
October 14th - Basic Preparedness
November 18th - Extreme Cold and Power Planning
December 16th - Pod Mapping (Social Supports)
Location: Development Services Building, Room 115, 150 Beavercreek Rd, Oregon City, OR 97045
Don’t miss out. Register now!
If you need help with the registration form or have questions about the training, email admin@upstreamaccess.org or call 971-241-5339
988 Oregon - Crisis Lifeline
988 Oregon is a free, confidential phone line that you can call anytime you are feeling overwhelmed, lonely, or just in need of someone to talk to. Support is available 24 hours a day via phone call, text, and online chat.
Call or Text 988. (En español: Marque 988 y presione 2.) Chat online at chat.988lifeline.org
Here are some situations that might cause people to contact 988:
Feeling overwhelmed or lonely
Struggling with mental or physical illness
Suicidal thoughts
Drinking or drug use
Difficult relationships
Feeling like you’re not seen or valued
What happens when you call?
You’ll be connected with a trained counselor who will listen to you with respect and care. If more support is needed, they might offer resources or referrals in your community.
Your mental health matters, and you don’t have to do it alone.
I/DD Awareness and Advocacy
National Down Syndrome Awareness Month
Every year in October, we recognize Down Syndrome Awareness Month (DSAM) in order to challenge stereotypes, promote inclusion, and encourage advocacy. It was first established in the 1980s with the support of the National Down Syndrome Society and President Reagan formally invited American citizens to recognize the month in 1986.
Here are three things you can do this October to recognize DSAM online and in your community:
Wear blue and yellow. Show your support by wearing the official colors of Down syndrome awareness.
Educate your friends and family. Share information about Down syndrome on your social media platforms or in-person. If you are a person with Down syndrome, consider sharing your own story.
Join GiGi’s Playhouse Portland for their DSAM Fall Fundraiser on October 5thYou can support the first Down syndrome achievement center in Oregon by attending their annual fall fundraiser. See event and ticket information here.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Each year on December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is recognized. This day was established by the United Nations in 1992 in order to strengthen the voice, leadership, and influence of persons with disabilities.
Fall and Halloween Activities
Fall is here and Halloween is on its way! And there are lots of fun and creative ways to celebrate in the Portland Metro area! From pumpkin patches to haunted houses and beyond, there’s something for everyone. Keep reading to find out what’s happening in our area and how to find the activity that’s just right for you.
Pumpkin Patches in and Near Portland
If you’re looking for the perfect weekend outing, check out this list of the best pumpkin patches in and around Portland. From Sauvie Island’s cozy farms to family-favorite spots in Tualatin, Wilsonville, and Canby—there’s something for everyone!
Read Travel Portland’s article Pumpkin Patches in and Near Portland to find a pumpkin patch near you!
The MAiZE on Sauvie Island
The Sauvie Island corn maze (also known as “The MAiZE”) is a Portland-Area classic. Every year, the cornfield features a brand new design, with twists and turns that are sure to keep even repeat visitors guessing!
Once you’ve made it out of the maze, you might consider making a visit to The Pumpkin Patch to pick up your Halloween pumpkin, or to the Big Red Animal Barn, where you can meet some new furry friends. If you’re hungry, stop by Bella Organic Farm next door for some hot cider, caramel apples, or one of the other great items on their menu.
Location: 16511 NW Gillihan Rd. Portland, OR 97231
Dates: Open through October 31, 2025
Times: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
For more information, visit The MAiZE website
Halloween Dance Party
Join the Autism Society of Oregon, Club EMU, and Alliance Services this October for a rockin’ Halloween Dance Party. The evening will include dancing, costume contents, a cupcake walk, and lots more!
The event is free and open to all ages. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and adult participants who usually require assistance must bring their support person with them. Please wear family-friendly costumes.
Sensory accommodations will be available on site for people who want them, including:
Noise-cancelling headphones
Fidgets
The music will be played at a lower volume for the first hour of the dance
Event Details:
Location: Parkrose Middle School - 11800 NE Shaver St. Portland, OR 97220
Date: Saturday, October 25
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Cost: Free
You must register online if you want to attend.
“Davis Graveyard” Haunted Yard Display
Every October, a quiet neighborhood in Milwaukie transforms into an exciting Halloween destination! Davis Graveyard is a unique haunted yard display that local residents look forward to seeing every year. With tall gothic decorations, ghostly projections, and handmade tombstones, it’s spooky, creative, and (best of all) totally free to visit! Whether you love Halloween or just enjoy impressive DIY art, Davis Graveyard is totally worth the trip.
Location: 8703 SE 43rd Ave. Milwaukie, OR 97222
Dates: October 1-31, 2025
Times: from dusk to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from dusk to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday
Find more information on the Davis Graveyard website.
Simple and Fun Halloween Costume Ideas
No costume? No problem! Here are two ideas for fun, comfortable, and budget-friendly costumes that are easy to put together.
Costume #1: Macaroni & Cheese
What you’ll need:
1 yellow or orange sweatshirt or t-shirt
1 pair of blue pants
Empty toilet paper rolls
Yellow or orange paint (whichever matches the color of your sweatshirt or t-shirt)
Paint brush
Directions:
Decide how many toilet paper rolls you want to use (these will be your “macaroni noodles”). Paint each toilet paper roll the same color as your sweatshirt or t-shirt.
Lay the toilet paper rolls out to dry, preferably overnight.
Use the velcro dots to attach the toilet paper rolls to your sweatshirt or t-shirt.
To pull it all together, put on the blue pants and the sweatshirt or t-shirt with your “macaroni noodles” attached.
You can also print off a picture of the Kraft logo, cut it out, and attach it to your shirt or pants using one of the velcro dots.
Voila, you have your very own macaroni & cheese costume!
Costume #2: Where’s Waldo?
What you’ll need:
1 red and white striped shirt
1 pair of blue pants
1 red and white beanie
1 pair of round glasses
Directions:
This one is easy - all you have to do is get all your costume pieces and put them on! Also, feel free to get creative. If you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, just do your best, and remember to have fun!
Winter and Holiday Events
Pancakes with Santa
Kick off the holiday season with a warm pancake breakfast and a visit from Santa! After breakfast and photos with Santa, there will be holiday crafts and activities too.
This free event from NW Disability Support will be in English and Spanish, making it welcoming and inclusive for all families.
While admission is free, donations are encouraged to support NW Disability Support and the important programs they offer for children, adults, and families in the I/DD community.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, December 13
Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Prince of Life Lutheran Church - 13896 South Meyers Road Oregon City, OR 97045
Christmas Ships Parade on the Willamette River and Columbia River
Each year a fleet of sailboats and yachts parade down the waterfront and gather at different locations along the river featuring light displays and inflatable decorations! This event is free and open to the public.
View the parade schedule and maps before you go!
Game Night at CPI
Game Night is back and better than ever! On November 20th, join us on the 4th floor of the Community Pathways building for an evening of fun, connection, and community!
Location: 4th floor at Community Pathways (2475 SE Ladd Ave., Portland, OR 97214)
Date: Thursday, November 20
Time: 4-6 p.m.
Providers are welcome to join too.
Please RSVP if you plan on joining us. You can contact your Personal Agent or email us at info@communitypath.org to let us know you’re coming.
We can’t wait to see you there!
CPI Office Closures
Our office will be closed in observance of the following federal holidays:
Veteran’s Day: Tuesday, November 11
Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 27
Thanksgiving Holiday: Friday, November 28
Christmas Day: Thursday, December 25
New Year’s Day: Thursday, January 1, 2026