For those of you who haven't been poor before: Applying for benefits (SNAP, Medicaid, Unemployment)....this is how it's been for a long time. It is nearly impossible to get help in a timely manner. You call and go in and verify.

This has never been easy. Have patience.

Yes, the DHHR and Workforce WV offices are overloaded (much MUCH more so), but the applying and waiting for snail mail and hopefully not missing the phone call and not understanding the documents and and never being to actually talk to someone. This isn't new.

Things have consistently been harder for our most vulnerable populations. Now that millions upon millions of people suddenly find themselves in this category, needing help, I hope we can all have a LOT more empathy moving forward instilling systems that help, not hinder.

This is not my first or second time applying for these benefits. it is a struggle navigating these antiquated systems. If anyone needs help, I will do everything I can to offer guidance and support. It's okay to need help right now & it's okay to be overwhelmed and frustrated.