Westside Stories

I am excited to be sharing a series of articles over the coming months that will highlight public servants and the wide range of services available in Wahkiakum County. I will start with the Department of Health and Human Services, as they play a crucial role in our community by offering a comprehensive set of services. By showcasing their work, I hope to increase awareness and appreciation for the important contributions they make to our county.

Every Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the office at Johnson Park opens its doors to the public, providing a range of services and opportunities for the citizens of the Westend. I would like to introduce you to three key individuals who are leading this initiative.

Public Health Nurse Stacy Wynn is dedicated to supporting eligible women and children through the federally funded WIC program (Women, Infants, and Children). He also provides vital vaccine services, specifically for COVID-19 and flu, as well as offers general health counseling that features blood pressure checks and family planning services.

Recently, Stacy secured grant funding to enhance vaccine storage capabilities that will enable the inclusion of childhood vaccine services in the future. In addition to these health initiatives, he is actively working to increase the number of stores in the Astoria and Warrenton areas that accept WIC benefits for Washington residents. As of now, Okies Market offers some WIC products, while Walmart is the only store across the river that accepts WIC for residents of Washington. Stacy’s efforts aim to ensure better access to essential health services and resources for the community.

Stacy has been a strong advocate for the Test & Go Kiosk located in downtown Cathlamet. This important resource is one of only 20 kiosks in Washington state and provides a range of essential health services at no cost. Users can access COVID-19 and flu tests, STI tests, harm reduction supplies, feminine hygiene products, and pregnancy tests. Unfortunately, the Washington program is set to end soon. However, Stacy is actively working to secure funding to keep the kiosk operating. He also hopes to establish a second kiosk in Westend in the future.

Health Community Specialist Terrie Howell is committed to enhancing the well-being of seniors through a variety of supportive services. One of her primary initiatives is assisting seniors with the Wahkiakum PUD Senior or Disabled Discount Program, which provides utility assistance to eligible individuals. In addition, Terrie assists with applications for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, which supplies vouchers to qualifying seniors, allowing them to purchase fresh produce at local farmers markets. This initiative not only fosters healthy eating but also supports local agriculture. To further promote safety at home, she assists seniors in applying for the installation of wall bars in bathrooms.

Terrie also serves as a valuable resource by connecting individuals with the Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities of Southwest Washington. This agency offers a comprehensive range of services, including caregiver support, dementia resources, in-home assistance, long-term care advocacy, and Medicare information. Through her efforts, Terrie enables seniors to access the support they need for a healthier and safer lifestyle.

Community Outreach Specialist Karisa Shaw dedicates her work to housing and utility assistance. A key aspect of her role involves coordinated entry services which support individuals experiencing homelessness by connecting them to essential resources like housing, eviction prevention, and rapid rehousing. Additionally, Karisa oversees the management of the emergency homeless shelter.

One of the vital resources available to residents is the Wahkiakum PUD Residential Energy Assistance Program (REAP). This program offers support for utility bills, allowing qualified applicants to receive assistance for one residential account and one monthly billing cycle per calendar year. The REAP program is sustained through generous donations from community members. Those wishing to contribute can easily do so when paying their PUD bill. It is important to note that assistance is provided based on fund availability.

This dedicated team works diligently to provide essential services to our community. Since most services are available by appointment only, it is recommended to call ahead to schedule your visit at (360) 795-8630.

Update on break in at Westend Food Pantry

A big thank you to the Wahkiakum County Sheriff's Office for their diligence in apprehending an individual involved in the recent theft at the Westend Food Pantry.

Ocean Beach Hospital issues Scam Alert

The hospital wants to warn the community that Ocean Beach Health does not call to ask for Medicare numbers. If you get a call asking for your Medicare information, do not engage. This is a scam. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up right away, do not share any personal information or Medicare details, and report the call to 1-800-Medicare.

Westside Happenings

March

12 – Grays River Flood Control District Meeting at GR Fire Hall, 5:30 p.m.

15 – Movie night at Grays River Grange, 7 p.m. Featured film is The Dark Divide (date change).

18 – NGRV School Board Meeting in the school library, 6:30 p.m.

22 – Open House at Johnson Park, noon to 6 p.m.

April

26 – Cemetery Forum at Naselle Community Center, time to be determined.

26 – Bingo at Naselle Community Center, doors open at 5:30 p.m., games start at 6 p.m.

To include an event on the calendar or to give feedback, contact me at writerlisayeager@outlook.com. You can also follow me on Facebook @ Writer Lisa Yeager.