What’s in this issue:
|
Important Information About Food Support Benefits
As the federal government shutdown continues, food support benefits through the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will be disrupted for thousands of Oregon households — including many homecare and personal support workers and their consumers.
Homecare workers are the backbone of Oregon’s long-term care system, and too many of us earn modest wages and rely on programs like SNAP to make ends meet. Losing food assistance means choosing between groceries, gas, or medication — an impossible trade-off for workers who care for our state’s most vulnerable residents.
As we face continued uncertainty from Washington, D.C., our union remains committed to making sure no worker stands alone. That means always working to ensure that every member has access to reliable information, vital resources, and real support. When times are tough, we pull together — because our union family stands strongest when we care for one another. Go to the SEIU 503 website to find a list of key resources and supports.
Take Action Now! Join with Oregonians across the state in calling on our federal leaders to do everything possible to ensure everyone in Oregon can continue to access the food they need. Your voice matters—act today.
Don’t Be Fooled: Anti-Union Propaganda in Your Mailbox
Well, the anti-union forces are at it again, sending unsolicited mailings to union members, trying to convince you that life is better without a union.
Don’t be fooled – these mailers are sent by corporate-backed organizations whose sole mission is to break up unions to weaken worker power and pad the pockets of billionaires. They aim to enrich the already wealthy by discarding our union contracts and paying poverty wages.
The truth is, these anti-worker groups are afraid of us. They know we have power in numbers and that when we stand together, we win higher wages, better benefits, and safer workplaces. They know that every time we organize, we raise the standard for all workers — not just union members.
If you get one of these mailings, toss it in the recycling bin where it belongs. Don’t let corporate propaganda divide us or distract from what really matters: standing united with our coworkers to protect what we’ve fought for.
Our union is us — the thousands of working people across Oregon who show up every day to care for others, keep our communities running, and make our state stronger. Together, we’ve won paid time off, pay raises, health care, and retirement security. Together, we’ll keep fighting for dignity and respect for every worker.
When they attack our union, they’re attacking you — and everything we’ve built together. Stay strong, stay informed, and stay united.
Open Enrollment ends TODAY — Don’t Miss Your Chance to Update Your Benefits!
You’ve heard us mention it before — and now the deadline is finally here! Today, October 31, is the last day of Open Enrollment for SEIU 503 members. Our union fights for these benefits so we can take care of ourselves while caring for others. Don’t miss your chance to make the most of them! As a member, you can:
- Buy additional life insurance for yourself and your family — no medical review required!
- Purchase short-term disability and legal insurance.
- Make changes to your existing plans.
Open Enrollment is your once-a-year opportunity to make sure your benefits fit your needs and your family’s future. Learn more about what’s new in Membership Advantages by clicking here.
No More Signatures Needed on PSW Payroll Submissions
Good news for Personal Support Workers! Signatures are no longer required on payroll submissions. This change simplifies the process — saving you time and paperwork.
You’ll still need to complete your progress notes and submit them along with your hours. Now it’s simple: just fill out your hours, complete your progress notes, and turn them in.
This change is a direct result of the hard work of our union bargaining team — a win in our new contract that makes your job easier and helps you focus on what matters most: providing quality care.
Carina Consumer Verification Changes
Oregon Medicaid and Oregon Project Independence (OPI) consumers can now create a Carina account using their Client ID (Prime Number). Previously, Oregon Medicaid and OPI in-home care consumers needed a verification code from a case manager to join Carina, but consumers now have direct access. To support a consumer with creating an account:
- Go to carina.org/homecare/medicaid/oregon/
- Click “Join for Free.”
- Complete account registration as a “Consumer” by entering the client ID (Prime Number) found on the consumer’s Oregon Health ID card.
- Consumers can now post jobs and message available providers nearby.
If you encounter issues, please call 1-855-796-0605 or visit carina.org/contactus. Carina is 100% free through a partnership between Carewell SEIU 503, a RISE Partnership program, and SEIU Local 503, as well as the Oregon Home Care Commission (OHCC). All Carina users are verified.
2026 Marketplace Open Enrollment and Carewell Healthcare Cost Assistance Benefits
The Health Insurance Marketplace (HealthCare.gov) Open Enrollment begins tomorrow, November 1 and continues until January 15, 2026. Eligible care providers enrolled in a Carewell-approved Marketplace plan are able to receive Healthcare Cost Assistance (HCA) benefits. These benefits help eligible care providers in a Carewell-approved health (medical) insurance Marketplace plan pay:
- The net cost of your monthly medical premium
- Out-of-pocket medical costs like deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, and prescription costs for services covered by your approved individual plan
Up to $8,000 of out-of-pocket medical expenses are covered in 2026.
Interested care providers can learn more about Open Enrollment and HCA benefits at CarewellSEIU503.org/approved-plans or by calling 1-844-503-7348.
New Mural Unveiled on SEIU 503 Portland Building
Earlier this month, we unveiled a new mural painted on the west side of SEIU 503’s Portland office building painted by well-known and respected local artist Héctor Hernández. The mural depicts workers in Oregon and our fight for fair contracts, social justice and opportunity.
Follow SEIU 503 For The Latest News & Updates
|
|
Upcoming Events Register events at Seiu503.org/calendarBe sure to check the events calendar regularly for regional meetings in your area! |
