Bonamici Bulletin

It was an honor to join President Biden in Portland to celebrate the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and discuss how it will create quality jobs, increase access to public transit, and help address the climate crisis. President Biden renewed our commitment to investing in American infrastructure, using Oregon’s Portland International Airport as a model for the country.

I helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which will make long-overdue investments in transit, roads and bridges, Broadband, EV charging, and more. I look forward to working with our partners in the Biden Administration to implement this historic law that will lead to healthier, better-connected communities across Oregon.

Improving Community Health

Multnomah County’s Behavioral Health Resource Center will be a vital resource for our community. I was glad to help secure $2.7 million for this project, which will provide peer-led, culturally-responsive, and trauma-informed care to individuals with behavioral health needs. Addressing houselessness will require a coordinated response by every level of government, and this will be an important resource for many.

I was also honored to help secure $2.1 million for Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center to expand their Newberg clinic, which will increase their ability to care for underserved communities in Yamhill County. I recently returned to celebrate the good news!

Increasing Access to Affordable Child Care

Children benefit from a strong start, which helps them succeed in school and life. During the Week of the Young Child I led 20 of my colleagues in calling for increased federal investments in child care and pre-school. I also visited Neighborhood House to see their Head Start program and learn more about their work to reduce hunger and homelessness.

Early childhood educators who provide this essential care – predominately women of color – must receive the support and wages they deserve for the valuable work they do. Affordable programs like Head Start are great, but spots are limited by lack of funding and staffing. I’m continuing to advocate for these important investments in our children, families, economy, and future.

Supporting Small Businesses and Non-Profits

Small businesses are an important part of our communities and our economy. I was pleased to help direct $175k of federal funding to the Columbia County Small Business Development Center. This center is already working with small businesses around the county, and will soon aid many more.

In Beaverton, the city’s Non-Profit Incubator will help increase access to critical services and promote equity. I helped secure $500k to strengthen this project, and visited with Mayor Beaty and community partners to hear about its progress.

Improving Community Health

Increasing Access to Affordable Child Care

Supporting Small Businesses and Non-Profits

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