Hunger Strikes in Mecklenburg County Despite Continued SNAP Benefit Delays

Mecklenburg County: Delayed Food Stamp Disbursements

Parents in Desperation Struggle Due to Processing Delays

Food stamp disbursements are being significantly delayed for residents of Mecklenburg County, where the demand for food assistance is still high. Co-founder of the Hearts and Hands food pantry Kenya Joseph draws attention to the desperation of parents who cannot provide for their families while their applications are being processed. Mecklenburg County’s performance is below the state average, with only 58% of food stamp applications accepted within the specified time constraints in the most recent week. This exacerbates the difficulties experienced by people who are already struggling financially.

Hunger Strikes in Mecklenburg County Despite Continued SNAP Benefit Delays (PHOTO: WRAL.com)

READ ALSO: Council Tax Rebate For Private Renters: A Proposal To Encourage Homeownership

County Attributes Delays to Surge in Applications and Removal of Pandemic Waivers

According to Smart News, the county blames the delays on many applications and removing waivers connected to the pandemic. Thousands of people are unsure how to support their families due to the situation, even after attempts to address it by hiring more employees and providing overtime have failed. Tina Postel of Nourish Up highlights that the community is experiencing a crisis of affordability and access to essentials, reflected in the record-high number of people seeking aid due to the delays.

READ ALSO: $30.1 Million Was Successfully Saved In A Fraudulent Refund With The Idaho State Tax Commission; Chairman McCray Urges Prompt Response To Verification Letters