Oregon's unemployment rate dropped under ten percent at the end of the summer, but that still means about twice as many people are unemployed now as before the pandemic. And then came fires across the state, burning down businesses and burning down workers' homes.
The Oregon Employment Department has been scrambling to keep up, while offering special programs like Disaster Unemployment Assistance. An antiquated computer system meant to be replaced years ago has added to the woes for people who need money in lieu of paychecks.
David Gerstenfeld is the boss at the agency, visiting to answer our questions.
One bit of breaking news: the director revealed that the deadline for applying for Disaster Unemployment Assistance, related to September fires, has been extended to November 27th.
David suggested using a relatively new Contact Us form now up on the agency website.