A Central Point elder mistreatment investigation has led to animal abuse and neglect charges after police say more than 60 cats were found inside a Valley Oak Boulevard home, including several that were deceased. Investigators said hazardous conditions required officers and animal control staff to wear protective suits and respirators.

Oregon Summer EBT benefits begin June 5 for automatically eligible families, providing $120 per eligible child to help buy food during the summer months when school meals are less available.

A new Oregon Capital Chronicle analysis found that Oregonians receiving SNAP benefits in 2025 most frequently listed major grocery, retail, fast food, school and university employers on income verification forms, including Safeway/Albertsons, Walmart, Amazon, Fred Meyer/Kroger and Oregon’s public universities.

Starting June 1, 2026, all Oregon households applying for or renewing SNAP food benefits must complete an interview before benefits can be approved or renewed. ODHS says the change returns the program to standard federal rules after temporary COVID-era interview flexibility ends May 31.

Thousands of Oregonians have already lost SNAP benefits under expanded federal work rules, with thousands more at risk this month. Oregon officials say some residents may still be able to keep or regain food assistance by meeting requirements or qualifying for exemptions.

The Oregon Department of Human Services says December SNAP benefits are being issued on time after last month’s shutdown-related delays. The agency also replaced more than 1,300 EBT cards this week following card-skimming activity detected in the Coos Bay and North Bend area.