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How to Make Blessing Bags in Oregon: Safe Food, Water and Weather Tips

A simple guide to packing blessing bags for neighbors without a home in Oregon, with food safety tips, CDC heat and cold tips, wildfire smoke mask advice, and a 211 card.

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Hi friend. A small bag with water, snacks and a few basics can mean a lot to someone on the street. In Oregon, rain, cold and wildfire smoke are real, so pack smart and keep it simple.

Dial 211 Call or text 988

Quick answers

What food is safe to put in a bag?

Pick sealed, packaged foods. The FDA says to avoid cans that are swollen or bulging, dented along the top or side seams, rusty along the seams, or leaking. Also skip torn, open or repaired packages. If food looks or smells bad, don't use it.

Official page: fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/surplus-salvaged-and-donated-foods

What should I add for cold and rainy weather?

The CDC says to wear a hat, a scarf, gloves or mittens, and water resistant layers. Hypothermia can happen above 40 degrees F if you get wet. Add dry socks. Warning signs are shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, slurred speech and drowsiness. That is a medical emergency.

Official page: cdc.gov/winter-weather/prevention/index.html

What should I add for hot weather?

Water matters most. The CDC says to drink water regularly, before you feel thirsty, and to take cool showers when you can. Spend a few hours at a library or other cool indoor place. Cramps, headache, nausea or vomiting are signs to get medical care.

Official page: cdc.gov/heat-health/risk-factors/heat-and-low-income.html

What about wildfire smoke?

Oregon Health Authority says cloth face coverings don't filter wildfire smoke particles. A NIOSH approved N95 respirator offers the best protection. If you pack one, add a note that staying indoors with clean air is best. Check air quality at airnow.gov.

Official page: oregonhealthnews.oregon.gov/breathing-easy-in-oregon-what-families-need-to-know-about-wildfire-smoke-and-masks

What info card should I include?

Write a small card that says: 211, call 211 or text your zip code to 898211. Add 988 for crisis support, and 911 for emergencies. In Portland, add the Transition Projects Resource Center, 650 NW Irving Street, 503 280 4700.

Official page: oregon.gov/odhs/pages/office-finder.aspx