Updates on initiatives in The Dalles

THE DALLES — The Sept. 3 The Dalles Chamber of Commerce Community Affairs meeting  focused on various community updates and initiatives:

• The Salvation Army and Saint Vincent de Paul hosted a Hero event, where 76 students received $100 gift cards.

• The Cherry Blossom Respite program has provided 155 hours of respite care to 15 participants, with 164.75 volunteer hours.

• The Small Business Development Center is offering three small business management classes.

• The city’s urban renewal program has been successful, with 18 Sustainable City Year projects underway.

• The Mid-Columbia Housing Authority is constructing a new apartment complex for mentally ill people, veterans, and disabled individuals.

• The community is also discussing the need for a new high school.