Rio Guzman's Journal

I am a fan of  KPBS, which not only provides classical music but also offers American Public Media’s Marketplace with news on business and economics. Recently they were airing a show regarding food stamps; it was about how food stamps could help people who are struggling in today’s troubled economy. A lady was explaining how the government was eager to help. She said that the applicants were treated with courtesy and respect, so people in need shouldn’t be reluctant to apply.

I lost a small business I had in Florida after the hurricanes of 2004; since then it had been an uphill battle. I am still paying bills that I incurred after my business crashed, and nobody is bailing me out (I am not Wall Street or General Motors). I do take responsibility for what I do and I am paying my debts one day at a time. I don’t really care for a bailout, but after listening to this show I figured that maybe food stamps would help a little.

To be brief I will only say that the lady who gave me the qualifying interview was rude and disrespectful. She implied that the information I was giving was fraudulent. I explained why it was not, but she was adamant. She was not talking to me but talking at me and avoiding any actual communication; she never even asked why I wanted food stamps. My application was denied due to the figures on the submitted forms (she said) without considering the actual situation.

As I walked out, I couldn’t help but thinking how inaccurate had been the information I received through National Public Radio. Do they verify their information? Can we believe the media in general? We need to verify ourselves, don’t we?

I have to admit that there may be better and more professional social workers than the ones I met at 1130 10th Avenue on December 16 of 2008 in San Diego, CA. There may be better locations also. Do you know of any? Have you had a better experience than the one I had? If so, please let me know. I’ll post it.

Filed under: Current Affairs | Tagged: Food Stamps, Food Stamps in San Diego CA, National Public Radio, San Diego CA, Social Workers |