The cold wind blows and the snow lingers, but there is plenty of warmth in the community. As the economy keeps tanking and the islands remain in winter hibernation, it is important to be aware of help that is available. Let this also serve as a reminder that this is a season of giving and sharing. The islands are rich with opportunities to donate time, talent, and money.
Food Stamps
Food Stamps are available from the Department of Health and Social Services of San Juan County. One must meet financial qualifications; to apply call 378-4196.
The American Legion Post 93, Eastsound
The American Legion has three different groups all with a different focus on how they help the community. The American Legion Post provides college scholarships and will make donations to those in need. The Post is also a resource for veterans and can help them apply to the Veteran’s Administration Fund for financial assistance. The Post Commander is Larry Everett at 376-6104.
The Sons of the American Legion provide 82 pairs of shoes twice a year to island children. The Sons of the American Legion Commander is John Curlett 376-4878.
The American Legion Auxiliary provides from four to six college scholarships for local high school students annually. The auxiliary contact is Judi Resch 376-4069.
They also do variety of fund raisers year round: Pancake Breakfasts, Annual Turkey Shoot, and the Scholarship Steak Dinners are just a few of the fundraising activities of the Legion. This group happily accepts donations and will make sure they are distributed in the community.
Mercy Flights
Mercy Flights on Orcas Island can make a medical trip to the mainland much faster. Mercy flights are operated by volunteer pilots who donate their time and planes. They provide flights to Bellingham, Skagit and Anacortes airports. These flights are primarily for people getting radiation treatment, which is a quick procedure, needed daily. These flights turn what would be a nine and a half hour round trip into one that only takes two. Mercy flights do not fly critical accident victims or people with medical emergencies, but they will fly spouses to follow someone who has been airlifted. To contact the coordinator, Audrey Wells, call 376-3201. She was a recipient in 2000 and has been the coordinator since 2002.
Orcas Family Practice
Orcas Family Practice will not refuse service based on lack of money. Orcas Family Practice serves all age groups and has Spanish speaking staff. They provide free well child check ups through a United Way grant. Dr. Dave Shinstrom says, “Our Mission from the beginning was to provide medical care to anyone, regardless of their financial situation.” For more information call 376-7778.
Orcas Medical Center
Orcas Medical Center will not refuse services based on lack of money. They are operating out of a grant from a local donor providing funds to help defer cost of services. Individuals can apply for the program at the front desk of the medical center. They also offer payment plans and discounts, and for those, insured or not, that need help. Director Alison Shaw is aware of the financial challenges that most are facing and encourages all to take care of their health. “Please come in and get the heath care that you need and we will make arrangements for payment,” said Shaw. For more information call the Orcas Medical Center at 376-2561.
OPAL
OPAL Community Land Trust offers rental and energy assistance. Call Lety Hopper, 376-3191.
Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Services
They have a 24-hour crisis line and offer different services for sexual assault and domestic violence. The domestic violence side provides advocacy based counseling, and will arrange an immediate three-day stay in a safe house. They can help find a women’s shelter, and help with safety planning.
The sexual assault side offers help to those who have been assaulted. They will provide advocates for medical help and legal help and give referrals. They also offer therapy specific to post-traumatic stress.
Executive Director Anita Castle says, “because of the rural nature of the islands we are able to offer long term and ongoing help.” The administrative office number is 376-5979 and the 24-hour crisis line is 376-1234.
Children’s HousE
Children’s House Director Jana Albright says they can help with child care cost by connecting parents with the appropriate organizations for financial help. They have two programs: the infant toddler program, which takes children from six weeks to 36 months, and a preschool program for children ages three to five. They also provide free space for a moms’ group every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon; all mothers are welcome. The Children’s House can be reached at 376-4744.
