When Paperwork Becomes a Barrier
Most of us “PO” folks have heard about the “NEW” federal requirements that will require many adults receiving SNAP food assistance benefits to work, volunteer, or participate in approved job training programs.
If you notice, there are some supporters who say “the goal is to encourage workforce participation and help people become more self-sufficient.”
But I know for a fact, in Branson there is another side of the conversation that should be looked at.
The issue is not simply whether someone is willing to work. Just not true.
The real issue (at least in Branson) is whether people who are already struggling while working can successfully navigate the “PAPERWORK” required to prove they are meeting the rules set forth.
***Life Ain’t The Same For Everyone***
I can tell you this, when lawmakers discuss work requirements, they only vision someone with a stable address, reliable transportation, internet access, and the “ABILITY” to easily travel to jobs and appointments.
Many of the hard working “PO” folks that Branson Outreach/Facebook Warriors serve do not have those advantages.
Some live in hotel rooms with an out of control 3-heartbeat rule because affordable housing is unavailable
Others are staying with relatives, sleeping in vehicles, or living in tents.
Many of these people do not have printers, computers, scanners, reliable internet service, or even a safe place to keep their important documents. (Some give their last dollar for a storage unit that may flood out as ours did.) – MEANING YOU LOSE EVERYTHING.
And for us “PO” folks, “EVERY” required government document/form becomes a hurdle connected to grief.
***THE REAL DEAL***
Branson is a tourism-based community.
Many jobs are seasonal, working hours constantly fluctuate and businesses slow down during certain times of the year. – “GRIEF SEASON”
In our years in Branson, Anita and I have noticed many workers move between temporary jobs, part-time positions, all while volunteering at “ELEVATE” in order to qualify for something. (INCLUDING A TINY HOME)
A person may “ALREADY” be doing exactly what is required under the law but still struggle to “DOCUMENT” those activities properly. Some spend several hours daily working at “ELEVATE.”
Imagine the challenge one must go through when transportation is limited and government offices are “DIFFICULT” to access.
One concern “REPEATEDLY” shared with Branson Outreach/Facebook Warriors involves paperwork and communication.
At our local DHS office located 2900 Green Mountain Drive, Suite 101 residents report being instructed to complete forms and leave them for processing. Others describe difficulties reaching caseworkers or obtaining updates regarding their applications. I can personally speak to this fact, as it happened to us as we were transitioning our granddaughters here. Our paperwork became lost even though things were personally taken into that office.
Whether these situations result from staffing shortages, administrative backlogs, communication breakdowns, or simple misunderstandings, the outcome can be “DEVASTATING” for a family who depends on food assistance, and in most cases only allowed to work 1-1/2 to 2 quarters in a year.
If paperwork is delayed, misplaced, or “NOT” processed promptly, the system may show that required information was “NEVER” received. (THIS IS IMPORTANT FOR DHS IN BRANSON)
***WHAT’S THE COST?***
When food assistance is interrupted the impact often shifts directly to the locals who are assisting each other. In most cases, the first option is to reach out to “Branson Outreach/Facebook Warriors.”
Food pantries see increased demand.
Churches receive more requests for emergency assistance.
Shelters become busier. – In Branson we do “NOT” have a full time shelter although one is very much needed and required. Our current shelter is only based on weather conditions. “VERY SELDOM USED.”
In many cases, “Branson Outreach/Facebook Warriors” has become the safety net as it appears to be the “FIRST RESPONDERS” for people caught in this bureaucratic mess. Every weekend, the “NON-FUNCTIONING, NON-PROFIT” businesses are closed. The last I recall, homelessness doesn’t stop on Friday and starts back up on Monday. It’s a 24/7 battle for survival and it’s about to get worse. Here recently, Anita has been actively working the weekends as emergency situations are occurring more frequently.
***ACCOUNTABILITY MATTERS***
Hey yall, I ain’t arguing against accountability.
Most people agree that public assistance programs should have rules and expectations. Anita and I certainly feel this way.
However, accountability should apply to the “ENTIRE” system, not just the person seeking help.
If recipients (like myself) are expected to meet deadlines and provide documentation, “GOVERNMENT AGENCIES” should also be expected to process information “EFFICIENTLY”, maintain accessible offices, and ensure residents can obtain assistance when needed.
The system can and will work best when responsibility exists on “BOTH” sides. Branson’s DHS office should be opened M-F as noted on their government website, and documents should be “ENTERRED” into the system and processed immediately.
The real question facing Branson is not whether work requirements should exist.
The real question is whether our community has the “RESOURCES,” “STAFF,” and “WILLINGNESS” to help vulnerable Branson’s residents successfully comply with those requirements.
** Can someone living in a hotel room easily complete the process?
** Can someone without transportation access assistance when problems arise?
** Can a homeless individual/family realistically navigate multiple layers of paperwork without support?
These are questions that deserve thoughtful discussion.
As Branson moves forward, community leaders, service organizations, churches, and government agencies must work together to ensure that those who are willing to comply with the rules have a “FAIR” opportunity to do so.
The goal should not simply be reducing participation numbers by kicking people off quickly as possible.
The goal should be helping people move toward stability while ensuring that no one falls through the cracks.
IF YOU ARE HUNGRY AND NEED FOOD, REACH OUT TO THE BRANSON OUTREACH WARRIORS. THEY HELP WITH NO STRINGS ATTACHED.
Dallas & Anita Williams,
Low-End Hotel Hole Renters
PLEASE BE SAFE EVERYONE!