February 22, 2024 3:40 a.m.

Following the sudden closure of the Forest Glen Senior Residence in Canyonville which houses about 50 people, state representatives Christine Goodwin and Virgle Osborne are asking state officials for their help.

The lawmakers sent a letter to the directors of the Oregon Department of Human Services and Oregon Housing and Community Services imploring the agencies to step in, assess the situation and take appropriate measures to protect the residents and staff.

The letter said the facility was abruptly closed, with no notice given to tenants or staff, and no arrangements made to continue services or pay employees.

The lawmakers said, “As soon as we became aware of the situation, we drove to the facility to investigate. Upon arrival, we found a shocked staff and confused and fearful residents. The physical condition of the building is also very troubling and clearly in need of significant repair and maintenance”.

Goodwin and Osborne asked agency officials to immediately visit the facility.

The letter continued, “As of today, several staff continue to go unpaid but remain dedicated to their tenants. Many community members and businesses have stepped in to fill the gaps by cooking meals, paying utilities, and removing trash – for now. We are grateful to all who have come to the aid of these elderly residents, but it is not sustainable long term”.

A release said the representatives continue to monitor the situation and await a response from the agencies.