Posted 3/12/2015 1:10 PM (GMT 0)
Yesterday I had to deal with a situation that can definitely trigger a downward spiral. My home energy assistance was dropped when I failed to renew my food stamp case. I was in a bad space when it was due for renewal and just couldn't deal with 'proving' I still need assistance. So, it didn't get done and as a result, I had to apply separately for home energy.
I put the application in in December, was told it would take 6-8 weeks. Well, week 9 a call was made to find out what the hold up was. They were requesting additional documents! Before I went yesterday, I took some time to enjoy the warm temps and did a little clean up in the yard. "Feeding the soul" before the 'dread' could overwhelm me.
So, off I go with the requested documents, only to be given another form. This one to be filled out by my landlord, which says what my lease (already provided) says. That my daughter and grandson live with me and that I pay for my own heat.
Now, I have to tell you that these applications are done through a division of the non profit organization that also owns the complex where I live. So, being that the main office is just down the street, and the weather was nice, I walked the few doors down to get the form filled out. I waited nearly 15 minutes while the worker held an extended personal conversation, within my hearing, before she came to see what I needed. Before even hearing me out, she tells me that energy assistance is done at the office down the street! I took a deep breath, explained that I had just come from there and that I needed the form filled out. She told me I would have to go back to the complex and have that office fill it out. Now, mind you, the office I was in at that moment is the address where I send my rent check!! All she had to do was call the office here!
So, I had to walk back to get my truck, drive back here and ask this office to fill out the form. The manager was aghast at what happened to me! One filled out the form and instead of handing it back to me, she walked right over to the fax machine and sent it to the supervisor at the other office! Then, the manager told me she would call both offices since all they had to do was make a phone call to her for verification!
At least the women that work at this location actually take the time to get to know those of us that live here. They know that my daughter has severe health issues and may be having brain surgery in the near future. They know that my grandson has severe emotional issues and as a result is being home schooled. They know that the home is always occupied and therefore needs to be heated all day long!
If not for them, the frustration and shame that I felt yesterday might have put me over the edge and down the rabbit hole once again! I'm still upset by the whole thing. Probably because I've had to borrow over one thousand dollars to heat my home through this past winter and even if I get approved, there is no way to have that money sent to my lender!
I'm tired of being poor. I'm tired of having to prove it. I'm tired of the chronic health issues that prevent me from working. I'm tired of being brushed aside and looked down on. But, I am thankful that there are compassionate people still out there, that do take the time to listen and try to help.
Thanks for letting me get this out. It's good to know that I am not the only one. Especially since I still have more waiting to do before finding out if I've been approved!