Nyssa police chief starts voucher program to aid travelers

NYSSA, Ore. (AP) – The police chief in Nyssa is starting a voucher program for travelers who run out of money while passing through town.

Chief Raymond Rau tells The Argus Observer in an article published Thursday that he noticed a need because one or two families approach the police each month asking for help.

He says people get stranded in Nyssa because they do not have money for gas. The town is near the Idaho border in eastern Oregon.

Newcomers have also requested assistance from town officials for money for food.

Rau says the police department is working with local churches to set up a fund and the vouchers will be handed out by police officers.

There will be $40 vouchers for food and $20 vouchers for gas that can be used at participating businesses.