By the Oregon Capital Bureau
More than half of the available funds for a new $500 relief check program have been used up in the first two days of the program.
As of Thursday night, checks have been issued to 38,700 people. The $35 million program has a maximum of 70,000 participants.
Residents must apply in person to one of the 150 participating banks and credit unions. Umpqua Bank, Columbia Bank and some members of the Northwest Credit Union Association are taking part in issuing the checks or cash.
The Legislature put out an advisory for applicants to plan ahead before visiting a participating bank or credit union.
Participating locations have reported long waits and having to turn away some people because of social distancing protocols. Those interested should check with their local institution prior to visiting the locations. No payments will be issued on Saturdays or Sundays.
Limits have been placed on the number of checks that can be issued by any one branch to insure a fair geographical spread of benefits.
For more information and to print-out an application, go to https://emergencychecks.
To qualify, applicants must:
· Have earned $4,000 per month or less prior to the impact by the COVID-19 crisis.
· Have not received all unemployment payments they are owed.
· Be a current resident of Oregon and 18 years or older.
· Be able to prove their identity and that they are an in-state resident.
· Attest that they are experiencing severe financial hardship due to the crisis.
· Be a current resident of Oregon and 18 years or older.
· Be able to prove their identity and that they are an in-state resident.
· Attest that they are experiencing severe financial hardship due to the crisis.
Applicants must also wear a mask and observe 6 feet of physical distancing when arriving at a participating bank or credit union.