WASHPO: Frustration among poor D.C. residents grows at understaffed assistance center
By Tim Craig
Washington Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Service centers that process welfare and other aid applications in the District are understaffed and overwhelmed with needy residents, forcing some to essentially camp out for days to try to get assistance.
The long lines, which some D.C. Council members are calling a crisis, are raising fresh fears
that the city is failing to adjust to the needs of its poorest residents as the economic downturn continues.
On several visits to the Income Maintenance Administration service center in Anacostia last week, a Washington Post reporter witnessed a crush of residents crammed into the office waiting to complete applications for food stamps, medical and rental assistance, or emergency cash payments.
For many, it was their second or third consecutive visit. So many people show up for aid that on any given day, more than 100 might be turned away at the close of business, even though they have been in the waiting area for up to eight hours.
"This is my third time here this week," said Patrick Carter, 28, who was trying to apply for food stamps. "I have a 5-year-old daughter, so I can't afford to be sitting here all day."
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Washington Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Service centers that process welfare and other aid applications in the District are understaffed and overwhelmed with needy residents, forcing some to essentially camp out for days to try to get assistance.
The long lines, which some D.C. Council members are calling a crisis, are raising fresh fears
that the city is failing to adjust to the needs of its poorest residents as the economic downturn continues.
On several visits to the Income Maintenance Administration service center in Anacostia last week, a Washington Post reporter witnessed a crush of residents crammed into the office waiting to complete applications for food stamps, medical and rental assistance, or emergency cash payments.
For many, it was their second or third consecutive visit. So many people show up for aid that on any given day, more than 100 might be turned away at the close of business, even though they have been in the waiting area for up to eight hours.
"This is my third time here this week," said Patrick Carter, 28, who was trying to apply for food stamps. "I have a 5-year-old daughter, so I can't afford to be sitting here all day."
Go HERE to continue reading.
To contact The Advoc8te or to submit an article for posting on Congress Heights on the Rise email congressheightsontherise@gmail.com
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