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About Smoke signals. (Grand Ronde, Or.) 19??-current | View Entire Issue (Dec. 1, 2025)
DECEMBER 1, 2025 Hand washing Every time you wash your hands, you’re doing something big for your health and the health of those around you. It may sound small, but it matters a lot. especially during National Hand- washing Awareness Week Dec. 5-11, when we focus on helping ev- eryone make handwashing a good habit. Here’s why handwashing is so important: • Dirty hands pick up germs (bacteria, viruses) that can make you or others sick. • Washing hands with soap and water removes many of those germs before they can get into your body (through touching your face, eating, etc.). • Studies show handwashing can prevent about one-third of diar- rhea-related sicknesses in children and one-fifth of respiratory illnesses (like colds, coughs). • It’s also a smart way to help keep antibiotics working. When fewer people get infections, fewer antibiotics are needed — which helps avoid antibiotic resistance. When to wash your hands — It’s key Here are some of the most important times to make sure you wash your hands: • After using the bathroom or helping someone who did. • Before you eat or feed someone else. • After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. • After touching something dirty or being outside and then touching food or your face. By washing at these “key times,” you reduce the chance of germs getting into your body or spreading to someone else. Easy tips to remember • “Soap + water = power” — soap helps lift off the germs. • If you skip soap and only use water, it’s better than nothing - but soap is much better. • Even if your hands look clean, they might still have germs: Going through the scrubbing step matters. • Make handwashing a habit, not a maybe. Once you do it often, you’re less likely to forget. Now accepting new residents For Grand Ronde and other Federally designated Tribal members of Oregon chaku ɬush təmtəm haws – Grand Ronde’s new treatment program in Sheridan, Oregon We are proud to welcome new residents to chaku ɬush təmtəm haws, a newly launched healing program by the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. Located in Sheridan, Oregon, this pro- gram provides a safe, supportive living environment with on-site wraparound services focused on recovery, mental health, and traditionally centered wellness. If you or a loved one is ready to take the next step toward heal- ing, we’re here for you. Our compassionate team is committed to walking alongside you on your path to wellness. Location: 1330 West Main Street, Sheridan, Oregon Call for services: 503-879-1501 sNok signflz 19 Attention pharmacy locker users The pharmacy department has a policy regarding perishable items that are placed in the lockers. In an effort to ensure that these med- ications are stored properly, items left in a locker for more than 48 hours will be overnighted free of charge to the patient’s address on file. Patients who leave perishable items in the lockers beyond 48 hours will also be restricted from having refrigerated items placed in the lockers for six months. Pick up or mail delivery options are available for these items during that time. Healing as a community Healthy parents create healthy children. Healthy children create a healthy future. The old ones said, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Unfortunately, some of our youth are faced with traumas that take them to unhealthy spaces. Some are there for just a short time, while others are for years, well into their adulthood. This is where we can heal as a community. Allowing a healthy space for one of our youth in the community can create a healthy future for them and their families. Whether you have thought it was possible or not, if providing space to be a foster or respite provider has crossed your mind, don’t hesitate to reach out and fill a role in our children’s lives. We have a wonderful team that will walk you through the entire process. Become the missing link. May you all have a blessed day. Much love and respect. Fabian Quenelle Foster Care Recruitment Specialist 541-364-8605 Fabian.quenelle@grandronde.org Holiday loneliness The holiday season often brings bright lights, fun gatherings and happy faces. But if you’re feeling lonely or disconnected during this time, you are not alone. Why loneliness can hit during the holidays n There may be fewer visits, travel may be hard or old family traditions might have changed. n Big expectations: We often see images of perfect family celebrations and that can make us feel like we’re missing out. n The weather and shorter days can bring on a low mood for many people. How to support yourself or others n Reach out and connect • Call or video chat with someone you trust — a friend, family member or neighbor. Just “Hi, how are you?” can go a long way. • Write a letter, send a card or use social media to say you’re thinking of someone. Small gestures matter. n Be kind to yourself • It’s okay to feel lonely or sad — those feelings are real and valid. • Do something you enjoy: Read a book, take a walk, watch a movie you like. It doesn’t have to be big. n Volunteer or help someone else • Helping others gives you connection and purpose. It also reminds you that you are part of something larger. • Even small things count: Drop off a card, make a phone call, offer a ride. n Watch for signs you may need extra support • If loneliness turns into sadness that lasts many days or you stop doing things you used to enjoy, you could benefit from talking with a professional. n Invite them • Ask if they’d like to join you for something low key — a walk, a coffee, a movie. The invite itself shows you care. n Know when it’s more than loneliness • If you notice serious changes (sleep, eating, mood) help steer them toward talking with a health professional. You matter. Your feelings matter. Even when things feel hard, small steps can create meaning. If you or someone you know is feeling really down or unsafe, please reach out for help — you don’t have to face it alone.
