Dear Friends, The lack of access to quality mental health care services has ramifications in every corner of our community. Some of our most vexing challenges stem from the widespread inability of people and families to receive critical mental health services. This was true before the pandemic and has been exacerbated by the unrelenting disruption brought on by the COVID-19 crisis. There is no individual, family member, or person living in our community who has not somehow been touched by issues related to mental health.Yesterday, I met with the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), Xavier Becerra, to discuss how the federal government can better support local communities in delivering resources for mental health services, in particular the young people who need support. We visited the staff and volunteers at Lines for Life, a crisis call center that provides 24/7 support for youth and adults struggling with substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, and other mental health issues.  The House of Representatives has already passed critical legislation to support more mental health professionals and suicide prevention programs in schools and I urge the Senate to get these bills to the President’s desk. Without proper investment in training, building community support, and combatting stigma or shame many feel when it comes to seeking help, we will not meet the needs of children and families who live in our community, and across America.   As a senior member of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Health, my priority is making the federal government a better partner to state and local leadership and expanding access to resources and services now.  This year I was proud to deliver $2.6 million in federal funding for the Multnomah County Behavioral Health Resource Center. This investment will help serve individuals experiencing houselessness with behavioral health issues and offer a day shelter, 32 shelter beds, and 19 transitional housing beds.  There has never been a greater need than now to increase youth mental health support as children. Having experienced extensive disruption and isolation as a result of the pandemic it is children who are often at the highest risk. I am thrilled that the University of Oregon has dedicated millions of dollars to repurpose the former Concordia University campus into the Ballmer Institute for Children’s Behavioral Health, a remarkable effort to advance research, training, and clinical breakthroughs in children’s behavioral health.These are challenging times, but I have confidence in the resilience of our community to come together in times of need, to be compassionate with each other’s struggles, and implement creative solutions to address problems that affect us all.  I will continue working in Congress to secure more resources for mental health services for children and adults.Remember, if an individual is in urgent need of mental health care, please visit https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HSD/AMH/Pages/Get-Help.aspx for help.