RICHMOND, Va. – A single mother of three, desperate for help, reached out to CBS 6 Problem Solvers after her benefits were not processed by Richmond Social Services.
"I should not have to take away a roof over our head to put food on the table,” said ShaneIse Williams.
Williams said she receives her monthly food assistance benefits from the City of Richmond like clockwork.
Until last week, when Williams found out she had to re-apply for benefits and interview with a new social worker.
It isn’t the first time that the mother has gone without benefits, but she said that this is the first time they have ever had to go days without.
“And then, to be told that they're not going to process it at all this week,” she said.
"It's not my fault that I didn't receive notice of action to let me know my social worker is changing,” she said. “It's not my fault that I didn't receive my renewal forms in the mail."
After going through the process she was promised her benefits would be replenished.
Now, five days later and Williams still has no benefits. Then a city social worker told her they're not working on SNAP benefits at all this week.
"It's very frustrating to the point that I came down here and I told them I was not leaving today unless I had some food stamps on my card today,” she said.
CBS 6 Reporter Sandra Jones tried to reach someone at Richmond's Social Services department, but a security guard instructed her to leave and not wait outside the building.
Moments later, a spokesperson contacted Williams and told her they would restore her benefits today.
She checked on the status and after a little while, her entire SNAP balance was available.
Williams is thankful she got help.
"I don't think without calling you guys it would have ever happened,” she said. "I hope this was an eye opener to let them know that they can't slip on the job.”
CBS 6 News is working for you. Click here to email a tip to the CBS 6 Problem Solvers. Be sure to leave us your name, phone number and detailed description of the problem. You can also leave a message by calling 804-254-3672.
