MACON, Ga. — When a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (or SNAP) renewal application is turned in, the Department of Human Services is supposed to process the request within 30 days.
However, 13WMAZ has repeatedly reported on the backlog issues the department has faced to help parents feed their families.
DHS told 13 that they are still working to catch up on their backlog for applications, but are mostly caught up on renewals.
They say they have just over 24,000 applications to catch up on statewide.
Jakeemia Shelley uses these state services to help take care of her son.
"It's been hell honestly, it's depressing," Shelley said.
She says her problems have gone on for over a year. It took one year for the state to add her son to her SNAP benefits, and she's still having problems.
"My benefit amount changed," she said.
She says they've given her $23 to shop for her groceries.
"That's not nothing but a bag of chips, some bread, probably a gallon of milk, maybe," she said.
Shelley says she's called the office everyday since early August, but just like 13WMAZ'S attempt, got no a response.
She says when she did get someone to pick up, that person was rude and unhelpful.
DHS says they are currently experiencing more calls than normal right now, which means callers may have long wait times. They say many callers are looking to find out the status of their benefits.
"I'm crying on the phone. It is hurting me and my baby. I'm losing weight behind this because I'm stressed out. It's too much - I don't know what else to do. I don't know what else to do," she said.
Shelley had a neighbor drive her to the office, but she says that also wasn't helpful.
"I called the constituent state line that's not working. No matter how much you try to call them, they'll say they'll work on your case," she said.
Now Shelley's looking for the state to step up and help the thousands of families who are relying on them, like her one year old relies on her.
DHS says people certified or recertified on or after November 18, 2023 can take advantage of longer certification periods. However, you must properly fill out your periodic reporting form to avoid further problems.
Information about that is here: Periodic Reporting | Georgia Department of Human Services Division of Family & Children Services