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Oregon Turns To Community Organizations For Help Eliminating Virus

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A computer rendering of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
Radoslav Zilinsky

The virus doesn't care who you are, but who you are and what you do can make it more likely you'll catch it. Much has been said about how people of color are more prone to COVID-19 infections, because of their working and living situations.

Now the Oregon Health Authority is distributing money to community based organizations, CBOs, to help curb the spread of the virus. The CBOs, which are generally better connected in their communities than state agencies, got grant money routed from the federal government through the state.

The money is roughly earmarked for outreach, contact tracing and social services. Dolly England, OHA's Community Engagement Program Manager, explains the workings of the project.

SO Health-E, a regional health equity coalition, is one of the recipients. Policy and Advocacy Coordinator Michelle Glass visits with that end of the story.

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The Jefferson Exchange is Jefferson Public Radio's daily news program focused on issues, people and events across Southern Oregon and Northern California. Angela Decker is the program's senior producer, Charlie Zimmermann is the assistant producer, and Geoffrey Riley hosts the show.