The Oregon Department of Human Services announced Thursday the appointment of a nationally recognized expert to help guide improvements at Oregon State Hospital. Bob Nikkel, Department of Human Services (DHS) assistant director for additions and mental health services, said Joseph Bloom, M.D., has been named special assistant for mental health in DHS. Bloom will report to Nikkel and DHS Director Bruce Goldberg, M.D. Bloom is dean emeritus of the Oregon Health and Science University School ... [full story]

The Oregon Department of Human Services in Portland was awarded a grant of $1,373,293 to expand the scope of a HOPWA grant awarded in 2001 In partnership with the Cascade AIDS Project, the Oregon Statewide Supportive Community Re-entry Project will provide 55 units of rental assistance as permanent supportive housing for post-incarcerated persons living with HIV/AIDS. "HOPWA has been a great success and many of our local partners, like the State of Oregon, stand out," ... [full story]