CASEWORKERS in Florida are reportedly letting questions from food stamp recipients go unanswered.
At least two women with young children have reported serious issues to ABC.
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In the latest episode, a mother from Escambia County has not been able to reach her local Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) office in weeks.
Jessica Moore, who cannot work after a diabetes diagnosis, has been collecting SNAP for two years.
Jessica said her family has not had any issues until this month.
If she is unable to reach someone, the family's SNAP benefits will lapse on April 7.
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As of April 6, the case was still processing.
"It breaks my heart because that's my kids that have to go without - not just me," Moore told ABC.
On March 25, a Pensacola woman reported the same issue to ABC.
Janna Brooks said her family went a month without assistance after their benefits lapsed on March 1.
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Janna worries the situation could repeat itself.
She said she would like to see SNAP renewals processed in advance.
According to the USDA, 14% of Florida families rely on SNAP.
The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) told ABC it'll answer any questions as soon as possible.
What can you do when SNAP offices are unresponsive?
If your case is neglected, the USDA encourages you to file a complaint.
Each office has procedures for handling complaints. The registry of all local SNAP offices is on the USDA website.
For example, in Florida, the Department of Children and Families (DCF), handles SNAP matters.
If you think that your SNAP case has not been handled properly by your caseworker, you may ask to speak to a supervisor, advises the USDA.
If you are not getting anywhere with your local office, you could file a complaint with the USDA.
They should have contacts with each state office.
USDA headquarters contact information can be found online.
How do you renew SNAP benefits?
The process to renew SNAP benefits varies by state.
Most SNAP offices have an option to provide paperwork by mail, fax, or in person.
For example, if you live in New York and are receiving SNAP benefits, you can expect a recertification packet in the mail two months prior to your renewal.
It will contain two important things: a new SNAP application and an interview date.
If you are facing an upcoming SNAP renewal, consider bringing the paperwork to a local office, if possible.
Additionally, see the full SNAP schedule for April, in order to be ahead of important benefit dates.
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The Sun also covered which 32 states will offer additional SNAP benefits in April.
Plus, see the full list of fast-food chains that accept food stamps.
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