Food Aid Effort Swamped

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Distribution to continue through Saturday
Posted: 2:18 PM Jul 8, 2008
Last Updated: 7:33 PM Jul 8, 2008
Email Address: sixonline@wowt.com

88 comments

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Thousands of families struggling to replenish groceries lost when the power went out during the June 27th storm are getting help from FEMA in the form of food stamps.

Because of the disaster, there's a wider income bracket so more people have qualified.

The four disaster centers were supposed to be open until 5 p.m. Tuesday to take applications and let people know if they qualify, but the response has been so huge, they had to stop accepting applicants shortly after 10 a.m.

There's plenty of need after the storm knocked out power to 126,000 in metro Omaha.

"For four days," says Sunsiray Blake of Omaha, regarding the amount of time she went without electricity.

"Our power was only out for a few days, but it flooded our basement," says Darryl Moore of Omaha.

"We lost practically everything and we were out for three days," says Sandra Walker of Ralston. Walker and her family don't normally qualify for food stamps, but they may qualify for special relief from FEMA and Health and Human Services. "I hope so," says Walker.

Others hope so, too. "I had just went grocery shopping, getting ready for the Fourth, it was about two hundred and something in my refrigerator and it's gone," says Blake.

Those like Blake have been willing to wait in line three or four hours on the chance they'll get some help. "The turnout has been large to say the least,” says Barry DeJong of Nebraska Health and Human Services. “We're experiencing quite a bit of traffic at each location."

One of the sites that opened up had to close because it couldn't handle all the vehicles. "We wish we had the manpower and the resources to open up five more sites to try to ease the pressure, but we don't right now,” says Dejong.

Outside the Family Resource Center at 30th and Lake, people waited. "Please be patient, we are going as fast as we possibly can," they were told. Some grew weary, but said the payoff was worth it.

"This will really help me out, save a little money," says Moore.

"Right now as gas is going up, everything is going up, it really helps in the household,” says Blake.

HHS hasn't tallied Tuesday’s number of applicants, but it took in about 1,500 Monday. The income guideline used is a bit complex, so HHS recommends you just come down to one of the centers and talk to a representative or call.

Here are the distribution locations and guidelines:
DHHS Disaster Food Stamp Assistance Centers:
Through Saturday, July 12th
7:30 AM-5:30 PM

Family Resource Center: 3040 Lake Street

Our Lady of Guadalupe Hall: 5005 South 23rd Street

DHHS Office: 12001 Q Street

Through Saturday, July 12th
8 AM-5 PM

Salvation Army Gym: 24th & Pratt

Must live of work in disaster-declared counties, meet certain income guidelines, and answer “yes” to at least one of the following questions:

1. Has your home or self-employment property been damaged or destroyed by the disaster?

2. Does your household have any other disaster-caused expenses?

3. Has your income been delayed, reduced or stopped because of the disaster?

4. Does your household have any cash or money in a bank account which you cannot get to because of the disaster?

Applicants must bring documents to prove their identities and where they live. For more information, contact DHHS at (402) 595-3400.

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: James on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:28 PM
I am a forty nine year old unemployed disabled man on food stamps looking for a job.How can I find a job if I dont have a cell phone.I am lucky enough to be able to use my sisters computer.Yes there is a lot of abuse of the food stamp program but we all need to stay intouch so we have a chance to get back into the work force.

Posted by: jodi on Jul 23, 2008 at 04:23 PM
I would think that dhs and fema are going to check the grids to see if you lost power and how long, oppd has this information. I heard of a few people that I know of that didn't lose power that long and didn't lose food, yet they got food stamps,they are all going to be audited, and they will see who lied and who didn't. Quit worrying about things you can't control. Even if they don't check, what comes around goes around. And by the way,there are people who lost power long enough to lose food and with the economy its hard to replace it. So there are deserving people. And all of you who say cooler and ice that also cost money and gas, not to mention it won't keep frozen food frozen for 2-3 days.

Posted by: call it what you want on Jul 12, 2008 at 02:55 PM
ALOT OF YOU PEOPLE NEED TO KEEP YOUR OPINIONS TO YOURSELVES. YOU DO NOT KNOW WHAT PEOPLE ARE GOING THRU. WHO ARE YOU TO JUDGE? MAYBE THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT THERE WHOSE POWER WAS'NT OUT[SO WHAT]ALOT OF YOU WHO ARE TALKING PROBABLY WISH YOUR POWER HAD WENT OUT SO U CAN STAND IN LINE. SOME OF YOU OTHER'S PROBABLY HAVE TO MUCH PRIDE TO STAND IN LINE. LAY OFF! YOU NEVER KNOW IF YOU HAVE TO BE IN THERE SHOE'S.

Posted by: Cornell Booth on Jul 12, 2008 at 11:05 AM
Only a blind fool would actually believe that ANY minority would have the same amount of opportunities as the majority in ANY society. Just so happens, in this society MOST of the minority didn't have a choice to come here or not. Lol. Funny how you people ASSUMED that I'm underprivileged. My wife and I have pretty good jobs, We are not on welfare, and we're buying our house. And how do you figure I'm black?...Glad to know I moved you people.

Posted by: Uncle Sam on Jul 11, 2008 at 05:50 PM
Mr. Booth, If you took advantage of the numerous education benefits (that I don't qualify for) provided for people of "HARDSHIP,PAIN,AND DISENFRANCHISEMENT". Then you too could enjoy a silver spoon.... Get out and better yourself, but it's too easy to collect a free handout than work for a silver spoon... ***For the family's who really need the support my "silver spoon" goes out to you.

Posted by: Mid Town on Jul 11, 2008 at 01:03 PM
How embarassing! I have never seen so many loud mouthed, greedy people in my life.

Posted by: Jen on Jul 11, 2008 at 11:44 AM
Seriously Cornell... get over it. There are SO MANY PROGRAMS to help underpriviledged people get ahead it isn't funny... why aren't people taking advantage of the educational opportunities the governemnt is providing them with? Why aren't they taking advantage of the job training programs? There's no reason why people should permanently be on assistance in this country. NONE. I'm sure many people in line for food stamps this week had legitimate reasons to be there, but you know a lot of them didn't too....

Posted by: sure on Jul 11, 2008 at 11:07 AM
Stop Hating! If those getting help are lying on their application and getting food stamps but wasn't affected by the storm. Fema will audit them and catch them. They will have to pay it back. I'm for one is glad Fema stepped in to help those who really need the assistance. That is what I want to see my taxes going to. Those of you that are crying about all of the people getting help...get over it. Are you mad because you didn't take the time out to get in line, or are you too good, too proud?

Posted by: annonymous on Jul 11, 2008 at 10:56 AM
To John regarding those wearing FUBU gear,bling bling, etc., AMEN to that. AND you are right...if you are not successful or have a good job, it is no one else's fault but your own. James Earl Jones and Dr.Bill Cosby will tell anyone that. You can't let circumstances control you. Race has nothing to do with it. YOU yourself have EVERYTHING to do with it.

Posted by: John on Jul 11, 2008 at 04:48 AM
Look, if you need it, go get it. Everyone needs help sometimes. If you are on you cell phone. FUBU gear on. with your Bling bling on. YOU DO NOT NEED THE HELP. To Cornell Booth you are a little over the top. If you are not successful, its your own fault. Not because of race.

Posted by: B on Jul 11, 2008 at 01:00 AM
To Cornell Booth, Montesquieu & April. Where in these post's did you read that NO ONE should get help. What people are basically saying is, more people who NEED help could get it if the people who didn't (people looking for a free handout) stayed away, instead of stealing from the taxpayer. And yes, that's what it is, STEALING! Almost sounds to me like you all feel a little guilty maybe? I also didn't see your names & phone numbers posted either. Don't ask or demand from people that which your not willing to do yourself.

Posted by: J on Jul 10, 2008 at 07:42 PM
April, Cornell Booth, Montesquieu - hope you're reading the other thread on "Disaster Food Stamp Assistance Streamlined" as well. Entertaining, isn't it? As I've noted before, and as April did, how many of these people would print these comments out and show them to their pastor and acknowledge them as theirs? BTW, Mr. Booth, my ancestors snuck in over the Canadian border, and being Irish, were worth LESS than blacks and so, were disposable. But I think we've got some silver spoons around here somewhere . . . :) Anyways, go back to my original post in the other thread - I did try to help, April, and I do help as I can during the rest of the year. I think this entire relief effort could have been better managed.

Posted by: April on Jul 10, 2008 at 02:53 PM
I wonder if you had to give your full name and add or ph.# would you be so cold an assuming,did any of you take the time to help??Is the mid.class better than everyone else? I wonder if one of the location was at Regency would you be so nasty,these people are gettig Food Stamp not money and it's only for 1 month,not a lifetime.One thing I'm proud of is that there are still people that care and before you haters start on me I worked for 32yrs for the same company now I'm disable and helping to take care of my family.And for those of you who think you are better because you have jobs,think again,things happen and you may be in the next line.

Posted by: CORNELL BOOTH on Jul 10, 2008 at 12:25 PM
TO ALL YOU RACIST PEOPLE WITH HUGE SILVER SPOONS IN YOUR MOUTH, DIG THIS. THE FOUNDATION OF YOUR FAMILY'S WEALTH WAS BUILT UPON THE HARDSHIP,PAIN,AND DISENFRANCHISEMENT, OF MOST OF THOSE FREELOADERS' ANCESTORS. ITS EASY TO WIN THE RACE WITH A HEAD START!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Montesquieu on Jul 10, 2008 at 08:39 AM
What happened to social justice as an ideal on which our nation was founded? Taxation is designed to mutually support those people who need our ‘collective’ support, and that is why taxation is impersonal. If you think the food aid is inappropriate from a fiscal, moral, or some other reason do vote out the individuals who made the decision to distribute it, but do not dare to blame the individuals who elected to receive it. It is despicable to see how much class hate there is in our nation… How in the world can one judge somebody who needs help? Do you think you are so superior that you will never need any help? If we want to be a strong nation in the world and truly respected –and not feared, like now- we need to have strong sense and means of social support, like national health care and the ability to tend to the needs of our fellow Americans. Go see the world, start with France, like Jeffrerson did, and come back with a new mindset...

Posted by: BC on Jul 10, 2008 at 12:13 AM
Cmon people! If they did away with welfare. The demacraps would have no voters, the majority of illeagals would leave, and these people who have made a career out of getting government hand outs would have to get jobs or starve to death. We can't have that, whats wrong with you people!!!!

Posted by: Stand In Line on Jul 9, 2008 at 11:42 PM
In the 2 days that n.o. mom stood in line she could have made enough money at a job to purchase a lot of groceries.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 9, 2008 at 10:06 PM
Most of these people look like they could afford to miss one or ten meals. But when you get paid to sit at home and do nothing but make babies, this is what you get...and the government loves it. Who said Communism was dead?

Posted by: ANON on Jul 9, 2008 at 09:48 PM
Yes, its all because of the "freeloaders" that this country is what it is now. How about the "freeloading" Oil companies? They are all striking it rich off of us hard working middle class. (whats left of us)THis was their plan, the Administration is backing it all because they all have shares in the Oil Sucking Scum Bags. To all of you in line, Take what you can get because tomorrow it will be gone.

Posted by: Barb (crossroads area) on Jul 9, 2008 at 08:09 PM
I would like to say something POSITIVE for the food relief that I stood in line for 5 hours today. I'm on disability and I struggle to get by! What food I had in the frig and freezer was purchased when I could afford to spend money on FOOD and I lost it all. My cell phone is my only communication device, I have a car that has to be insured, plated, serviced and put GAS in. The clothes I wear look nice but, I shop the second hand stores. I'm not a freeloader or a "so called needy" that had nothing else do do. I'm grateful for the kindness that I encountered today by the people in line and the water given to us by a lavista church. Don't be so quick to judge others and to make assumptions. Prior to my disability I worked and I paid my taxes! That is what your "paycheck" does for you. When my power came back on before my neighbors I shared power to 4 homes with 100' cords and was glad I was able to help and I asked for nothing in return. Kindness and Help is priceless. THANK YOU!

Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 9, 2008 at 05:11 PM
Some of these so called needy people have been there 2 of the days, and one said she'd camp out there tonight. Here's a thought. Spend that money you did not get at the job you probably do not have on your so-called lost food.

Posted by: tony on Jul 9, 2008 at 05:07 PM
ohh please half of those people down there there fridges were empty before the storm hit so why dont they let the peoiple who acually lost sumthing get it first half of them are jus down there jus to get food becuse they have no jobs

Posted by: OmahaAnnie on Jul 9, 2008 at 04:17 PM
This is just another way for the freeloaders to get more for free. I do not believe that NorthEast Omaha was hit like the rest of midtown, but the first people to line up for the freebees are the North Omaha lazy. I believe I am now a victim of Katrina. Katrina this, Katrina that, I have had enough and I need relief because of Katrina! FEMA come to my aid!

Posted by: N.O. Mom on Jul 9, 2008 at 03:58 PM
I am a single mother(divorced with no Child Support)of 3 who works full-time. I receive no help from the Govt for anything, my children can not even get a bus to school as we live 3 blocks within the 2 mile limit. I cover 100% of my healthcare,groceries,utilities and mortgage. In order to afford a house I bought in North O,in order to find a decent job I had to go out west, talk about gas prices. People say it is by choice that I do these things, but it is not! I HAVE TO in order to support myself and my children. When I got a call from a friend about the FEMA relief, I found a location and stood in line for 2 days! I have a VERY tight budget when it comes to groceries and can not afford to buy them twice, let alone start over from nothing! This was a welcomed surprise! I did get more in funds then I lost, but I know I will not have to rob Peter to pay Paul next month in order to buy a loaf of "good" bread! I can now pay for expenses from water damage my ins will not cover. THANK YOU!!!

Posted by: To: Disappointed on Jul 9, 2008 at 03:52 PM
Sure people fall on hard times but I think the point is you should help yourself before looking for a hand-out! Sell/downsize that Expensive Car and cancel your cell phone service until you can get back on your Own Two Feet and stop living off my paycheck!

Posted by: Care on Jul 9, 2008 at 03:35 PM
This is not even close to Katrina, they shouldn't even be in the same phrase! And for all those who talk about lazy people on welfare, I'm on welfare, and I'm not afraid to say it. I lost my husband 4 years ago in a car accident that wasn't his fault, but I'm still trying to pay of his medical bills. I was left to raise two young kids, and I work close to 16 hour days, I pay my taxes. So think of the people that deserve to be in that line, most people do take advantage of the system, but stop bad mouthing everyone that's in the system. You can't say anything unless you've been there and know how it feels to not be able to make ends meet.

Posted by: joey on Jul 9, 2008 at 03:06 PM
Listen, to those that think these are mean, i dont think thats what people are trying to do. Its just that these people are in line for HOURS on end talking on a cell or eating fast food waiting for food assistance and reality is there mostly bums that are in that line. Im sure theres true cases of need but seriously you cant say that most of those people waiting are in need of assistance. i have no problem with people that need assistance, im glad to help if i can but to those that dont work and just are looking for another free hand out, you should really be ashamed. my power was out almost 23 hrs and my food was fine in the fridge. its just odd that all these people are asking for assistance when most peoples power was back on b4 food could spoil unless you were dumb and kept opening the fridge or didnt pack things on ice!

Posted by: mary on Jul 9, 2008 at 02:01 PM
So what is the guideline for this assistance. Are the only people eligible for this assistance those already getting assistance or are the working poor the ones not being helped. The income guideline listed? Net or Gross and does everyone realize. That is basically federal poverty guideline that everyone that could get assistance probably already does. And who's in charge of this assistance. DHHS dosnt want to answer questions. Fema says they dont assist with food. So who has the answers.

Posted by: Disappointed with mean comments on Jul 9, 2008 at 02:00 PM
If you see me driving a nice a car, cell phone and fancy clothing. But now I'm standing in the food stamp line because of an disaster. Could it have been I worked hard to achieve those luxuries. But Now I am down on my luck? Hope each person that makes such mean comments about people. Never have to ask anyone for anything.

Posted by: SHANNON on Jul 9, 2008 at 01:54 PM
I AGREE W/HEATHER I'M A HARD WORKING WOMAN I LOST FOOD POWER IN THE STORM BUT I WAS AT MY 2ND JOB & DIDN'T KNOW I WAS W/O POWER UNTIL I GOT HOME SO I DIDN'T HAVE TIME TO GET MY FOOD OUT & I HAD TO GO TO WORK THE NEXT DAY SO I NEED THIS ASSISTANCE,GRANTED THERE ARE PEOPLE WHO ARE ABUSING THIS HELP BUT IF THEY READ THE APPLICATION IT STATES THAT IF THEY FOUND OUT YOU DIDN'T NEED THE ASSISTANCE THEN YOU WILL HAVE TO PAY IT BACK SO IT WILL COME BACK TO THEM BUT I NEED THIS HELP & I'M THANKFUL ITS HERE

Posted by: mary on Jul 9, 2008 at 01:11 PM
I'm glad that some of you dont mind paying for your Milk twice. I on the other hand paid once for my groceries and if someone wants to help me with a little money, I'll take it. I do agree that some of those people in line should be at work. I cant actually go till maybe friday. Yes single parent, full time and part time.

Posted by: T on Jul 9, 2008 at 01:04 PM
This is a gross example of people taking advantage of our government. If you are one of these people who were in the line for the free food I have on word for you pathetic. This is a prime example of why the country is struggling, because we have a bunch of lazy free loaders. Here is my advice get a JOB!!! Instead of hurting our community do something productive.

Posted by: Fed Up on Jul 9, 2008 at 01:01 PM
The problem here is not entirely the people. It is the system that allows them to be dishonest. While I realize that many people use the program in the way in which it was designed (unemployment, house fires, illness, etc.)for a short period of time, other have lived off of that system for generations on end. What lazy and uneducated person would not do that if the system allows it? I can't wait for the stories that come out about people frauding their insurance companies in the same way.

Posted by: ANON on Jul 9, 2008 at 12:42 PM
Its funny to see so many of you walking in the shoes of the needy. You all know whats best don't you. This in NOT comparable to Katrina by the way. Look it up. Did any of you think that the high prices of gasoline and food my have drained some of these people. It sure did me. It still does. I have a family of 5 and we've suffered no damage and no electricity outage. Yet I may still go apply for temporary assistance. That is what my hard earned dollars are for. If I'm paying into it does that not give me the right to qualify? So what if that portion of what the government takes out of my paycheck twice a month comes back to me. If i don't need it I can sure as hell bet there is someone out there that does. Shame on all of you. Watch what you say you may find yourself in the line someday.

Posted by: Jeff on Jul 9, 2008 at 12:21 PM
God Bless Billy Bob! There isn't anything else that can be added to his post, you hit it right on the head. Get ready for the next big giveaway...school supplies!

Posted by: C on Jul 9, 2008 at 12:07 PM
I'm sure that there are some people that were standing in this line legitimately; but I also know that there were people standing in line to get a free hand out and weren't affected at all - they were just in the vicinity of where the damage affected areas were. This is very shameful of people to do - is it any wonder why so many people were turned away? Such people should be terribly ashamed of themselves.

Posted by: Faye on Jul 9, 2008 at 11:15 AM
I just cant beleive you people, first of all I dont think no one lost food at all because everyone that power was off knew someone who power was not and they just took there food over to there friends or family house, and then people get on here and talk about people just wanting a free handout, when in fact it is people struggling everyday and when something like this comes along they have no other choice but to stand in that long line and try to get what is coming to them. No I did not loose power but I know alot of people that did and they all brought there food to my house, so bottom line is everybody in that line is full of it, but fema is going to give it away anyways so I'm just glad my tax dollars is still helping someone eat. And yes some people that live in North Omaha do work and I have all my life.

Posted by: Nikki on Jul 9, 2008 at 11:14 AM
The whole process of this food aid effort is ridiculous. There are honest people who are deserving of and would be grateful for that assistance. Individuals should have had to apply, shown some PROOF, and then have it reviewed by DHHS. What they're doing now is attracting a bunch of undeserving freeloaders that complain about being turned away from their God-given RIGHT to that FREE money. I wish I didn't have a conscience or a job so I could stand in line too, must be tough.

Posted by: annon on Jul 9, 2008 at 10:58 AM
I think Heather hits it on the head. There are people that truly need this. Then there are lazy food stamp abusers that could be at work instead of being in line. My fam came to this country with nothing and NEVER used food stamps. Simply too much pride. I noticed lots of cell phones and cigarettes in this picture. This isnt real need. This is lazy people trying to get more than they deserve. Leave the food stamps for the folks that have jobs and still arent making it or the older folks. The govt has long needed to put stiff restrictions on food stamps. Get a life and a job and an education. Then you can fill your fridge and freezer if you loose power without worry. Dont miss a good work day for something free. Shame on all the govt assistance abusers!!

Posted by: Former DHHS on Jul 9, 2008 at 10:43 AM
Mr Blake...do you expect us to believe that you had purchased "about two hundred and something in my refrigerator and it's gone" for your 4th of July celebration over a week away...Receipts receipts receipts, Hmmm I wonder??? Abd BillyBob, you could not possibly know how much you qualified for w/o being in these lines. That much (426.00) is more that some real qualifying people ever get...

Posted by: Kamala on Jul 9, 2008 at 10:42 AM
Who are we to judge if someone needs a hand out or not. Alot more people probably should be in line for some assistance. But since they talk about other people needing assistance so much. They are embarrassed to ask for assistance themselves. Keep it real with yourselves. People have jobs and living pay check to pay check. Don't get laid off work. OOPS! Unemployment, Is this government assistance until you find employment?

Posted by: Joey on Jul 9, 2008 at 10:25 AM
We all know what the majority of the people are in these lines for, a HAND OUT! How pathetic for someone to abuse the system when theres actual people starving and homeless in this world and alicia you know darn well most of these people didnt need foodstamps, i mean if there able to pay for those cells and cars..i just think if people spent there money on needs first then the wants, people wouldnt be in such a money crunch. Plus this isnt the first nor the last time people are going to lose power, put your meats in the freezer with a few bags of ice or get a cooler with ice and meat. dont tell me only a few stores had ice, we live in a city, im sure there was somewhere that had ice. plus if you leave the fridge closed the cold will last longer. I just think its horrable that people are abusing assistance programs and yet we have people who need help but cant get it! when are we going to fix this???

Posted by: Amy on Jul 9, 2008 at 09:57 AM
Wow! I'm ashamed to see what I see in these pictures. It is obvious that there are people in those lines who are there to abuse this program. I believe that the state was trying to help but because of so many dishonest people; their good deed is being abused. I wonder if those people who are ruining this for the people who really need this sleep well at night? They must have no morals or conscience. Shame on them. I hope this doesn't ruin it for those who truly had no power and are in need. It is just obvious just looking at the pictures and seeing the interviews on the television. They are making fools of themselves! What goes around; comes around.

Posted by: Mike on Jul 9, 2008 at 09:35 AM
On WOWT news, it showed the long lines for this "hand-out". To those standing inline for no apparent good reason, had no damage, lost nothing, get a JOB! Your lazy, ignorant, and have no consciouse whatsoever! I agree with some of these post. People showing up with flashy vehicles, cell phones, cigarettes. HA.! Pathetic scroungers.

Posted by: Rose on Jul 9, 2008 at 09:31 AM
What a joke! More government waste.Our tax dollars being thrown away. FEMA needs an overhaul, with strict checks and balances in place to stop the fraud. We were without power for 10 day in Oct'97 and received no help no food nothing - and we had small kids at home. Stop wasting our tax dollars. Let these people learn how to take care of themselves.

Posted by: Totally surprised on Jul 9, 2008 at 09:26 AM
I am just SHOCKED that there are people that can afford a cell phone and fast food, but are in line for free food stamps. I 100% agree with Katie. GET A JOB!

Posted by: Flo on Jul 9, 2008 at 09:25 AM
What comes around goes around.

Posted by: Kristy on Jul 9, 2008 at 09:07 AM
Wow...I didn't know that people that were already on food stamps could get MORE food stamps! I guarantee half these people are already on some type of assistance. As somebody mentioned earlier, who has the time to take all that time off work just to stand around in line for some free food stamps? OH YEAH, PEOPLE THAT DON'T HAVE JOBS!!! I myself have a job and would rather earn the CASH to buy food myself. If you have the time to stand around in line for 4 hours, you have time to fill out some JOB APPLICATIONS. Some folks wouldn't know what work was if it slapped them in the face...People sicken me....This type of assistance should only be available for the sick, elderly and disabled...Call me harsh if you want but THIS is the world we live in today and you all know it!! The people that really need it should get it, I'm not saying the help shouldn't be there, but there are A LOT of people looking for handouts! If you can STAND on your healthy legs for half the day YOU CAN WORK!! Ugh!

Posted by: Lori on Jul 9, 2008 at 09:03 AM
My father-in-law lost power and we didn't...my husband went to his house Friday night after the storm had passed and packed it all up and brought it to our house. He got his power back Saturday afternoon so we took it all back. Also, the Quick-Trip at 72nd & Military had PLENTY of ice all that weekend. I doubt EVERYONE was out of ice.

Posted by: SADDENED on Jul 9, 2008 at 08:52 AM
We had to throw all of our food out but you don't see me asking for free food. And I am a single, full time working mother. I knew this was going to happen all of the free loaders were first in line. I agree with Kathy, if this was a job fair you DEFINETLEY would not see any of those freeloaders out there. They would still be at home sleeping.

Posted by: Scott on Jul 9, 2008 at 08:47 AM
Good grief!! Turn in the cell phones for cash so you can buy food!! I guess I didn't realize we had another Katrina. What a joke!!!

Posted by: Lights Off 4 A Few Days on Jul 9, 2008 at 08:23 AM
Thank you Ms Susie Skinner DHHS for trying to get an abundance of people Aid who really did lose power and food, i did and i am a hardworking mother and have no other means other than my paycheck which i do live from biweekly, my basement also flooded so thats out of my pocket, i thank you FEMA and also the Department of Human Services 298 helped me a great deal, i know some people are taking advantage but they have to deal with it some way or another, thank you also the Our lady of Guadalupe we left work 10 mins early and even through they said they were done they took myself and a friend in. Linda(Blair) i'm sorry sweetie i was at work,leaving at the time and it was more than just a windstorm regardless i was without power and also the stores so i couldnt get a cooler, and no i never had a refrigerator that broke down, and pray i never have too, you focus on cell phones and different things but you cant focus on their lost

Posted by: melvia on Jul 9, 2008 at 07:49 AM
Hi, why dont you have a site open in NorthWest omaha? We live in the 90th and Blondo area and there is nothin open in our area to help us with food stamp assistanace.

Posted by: me on Jul 9, 2008 at 07:47 AM
I can answer yes to some of those questions. We did lose shingles that we can't claim on insurance because it wasn't enough to claim. SO guess what, that comes out of our pockets. I actually DID loose a refridgerator full of groceries. I DID get ice & a cooler to save some items. I DID get dry ice to put in my freezer. Do you see me trying to "fool" the system to get assistanc? I am working to earn my dollar to replace what we lost. We are a working family trying to make it with a baby. We have insurance, have good jobs & do the best we can. I can't take a day off work to go stand in line behind people who are probably already on food stamps. I hope the HHS looks at applications close so those that need help, get it & those trying to cheat the system get a slap in the face!

Posted by: cp on Jul 9, 2008 at 07:02 AM
THIS IS TO BILLY BOB THERE WAS MORE THAN JUST NORTH OMAHA PEOPLE OUT THERE IN LINE SO SAVE YOUR COMMENTS TO YOURSELF BECAUSE IF SOMEONE FROM NORTH OMAHA WAS IN YOUR FACE YOU WOULDNT HAVE THE HEART TO SPEAK ON IT.IM TIRED OF EVERYTIME I READ THESE COMMENTS EVERYBODY BLAMES EVERYTHING ON NORTH OMAHA GET A LIFE

Posted by: Kathy on Jul 9, 2008 at 06:40 AM
We lost pwer for about 12 hours. I didn't open the fridge or freezer during that time and everything in them stay cold or frozen. If it had been longer I would have taken everything to a friends house to save it. I have to agree that this looks like alot of people are taking advantage of the situation. There should be strict guidlines, people should have to prove they lost power for an extended time.

Posted by: dc on Jul 9, 2008 at 06:21 AM
I just love the Midwest values shown by these comments. Next time you people go to church to feel superior to everybody, why don't you actually listen to what is being said? The stereotypes listed in some of these comments are pathetic. Bigotry is alive and well.

Posted by: G on Jul 9, 2008 at 06:13 AM
I am a single mother, full-time student and not looking to take advantage of a "freebie". After 4 days of no power, I lost everthing in my freezer and also threw out questionable food in my refrigerator. I am only looking for help to replace what was lost. I know alot of people are only looking for a hand-out but there are alot of us who don't try to beat the system. Omahans should keep in mind that many of us are bettering ourselves and don't need to be knocked down anymore than we already have. $25 doesn't go along way at the grocery store but every little bit helps. Remember to ask yourselves, if it was your sister, mother or grandmother, a good friend or even yourself: would you be so quick to condemn or be judgemental?

Posted by: B on Jul 9, 2008 at 01:29 AM
I wonder how many of these people are just people who blew their regular food stamps that they got on the 1st of the month, on 4th of July parties and now need more food stamps to get thru the month!

Posted by: John on Jul 9, 2008 at 12:24 AM
I hope the people that NEED it get it. I am sure there will be people taking what they dont need.

Posted by: Alicia on Jul 8, 2008 at 11:20 PM
To Katie I have never heard a more ignorant remark in my life they have these locayions all over Omaha to help and from what i've seen the salvation army on pratt is not nearly as congested as the others so let your little remarks about Northe Omaha stay where they came from in your head

Posted by: Linda on Jul 8, 2008 at 11:01 PM
Just wondering why these people aren't at a job earning money to pay for the food they lost instead spending half a day waiting in line for a handout. It was a "windstorm" for heavens sake do what self-sufficent people do get a cooler! I am sure many people have had their freezer of refrigator break down at sometime or another and didn't expect the government to take replenish their freezer.

Posted by: kelley on Jul 8, 2008 at 10:39 PM
you are kidding me! watch the people in the video on their cell phones and smoking cigarettes....you can afford these but not food....people should be ashamed of themselves!

Posted by: Uncle Sam on Jul 8, 2008 at 10:38 PM
Sure are a lot of cell phones in the crowd.... I know if I need cash and food a cell phone would be the last item I would own. TAKE CARE OF YOUR FAMILY FIRST!!! I would hate to see what would happen if a real disaster hit..... Prepare yourself; don't rely on the government...

Posted by: ka on Jul 8, 2008 at 10:34 PM
get a job people...quit looking for handouts...we were without power and took food to my mom's...wow think outside the box....

Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 8, 2008 at 10:29 PM
I was without power for 4 days and I did get a cooler with ice, but all of my meat still spoiled. I went to my insurance co and they told me to prove the amount of food that was lost. I just wonder how many of those people power was out. Maybe they should have gone out to get a job today instead of standing in line. I have to work for my money its not handed to me

Posted by: kathy on Jul 8, 2008 at 10:26 PM
If this was a job fair do you think these lines would be this long. Lets no rely on handouts unless you really REALLY need it.

Posted by: S. Jean on Jul 8, 2008 at 10:13 PM
What a joke! With the storm(s) hitting at the end of the month, no extra Food Stamps should have been given at all! Everyone would have been on the last of the June Food Stamps, and the new July Food Stamps were just a couple days away. The State should not be running these Public Assistance Programs at all anymore. All of the Public Assistance Programs were intended to be TEMPORARY!!!!! How many generations of stamp takers are there? Hmmm.... Here's a thought...plan ahead for such possible disasters...even if only $10 a month. Cut the cell phone options, the text messaging. If everyone made better choices, than disasters wouldn't be handled this way. Family and neighbors would help take care of each other.

Posted by: Billy Bob on Jul 8, 2008 at 10:06 PM
This whole thing is a joke.. I lost power for 4 hours and qualified for 426 dollars in food stamps through this program. I have never been on food stamps, and would not accept this hand out, I have more pride and resepet for myself than that. 90% of the people that showed up for this suffered no damage or lose during the storm, they were istead looking for a free hand out.. "Welcome to North Omaha". The best part about this was watching them pull up in their $40,000 dollar cars with their $4000 rims and $1000 steros. Maybe if they would stop popping out kids and get a job, they wouldnt need the free handout.

Posted by: DHB on Jul 8, 2008 at 09:49 PM
And just when I thought I'd never see Midwesterners acting like Katrina victims. Guess 9th Ward = North Omaha. And yes, I agree...the most recent food receipts should need to be provided, as well as proof of residence and proof the power was indeed out for as long as they are claiming. I know homeowners' insurance requires recent food receipts to claim food loss...if FEMA isn't doing this they have learned NOTHING from Katrina & Rita. "Free" food stamps indeed...paid for by us hard-working taxpayers. I guess I didn't realize that Pop-Tarts, potato chips, Twinkies and other junk foods required refrigeration. 'Cause that's all I've ever seen anyone buy with food stamps.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 8, 2008 at 09:42 PM
For those of you who think a cooler and Ice were the answer. I attempted to do that and I had to go to 5 different places to get ice. I was refused Ice because everyone else had already bought them out. My power didn't go off untill Sunday morning. It was related to the storms. However Buy the time we lost power most places that sold ice were sould out. When we called OPPD they told us it would be up no later than monday. We didnt get power back untill thursday. Im sorry we believed the power company. I am wondering if they are checking oppd to see if folks really lost power or they are taking advantage of the state and Fema. There is a genuine need and i am ashamed that people are fighting and near rioting. Grow up folks and let us that need help get it.

Posted by: mTm on Jul 8, 2008 at 09:35 PM
This sickens me. The same "Katrina" like victims here. Really, how much of NE Omaha was affected versus the rest of the City. It appears, the other folks can take cae of them selves. It's JOKE like most government hand outs.

Posted by: Heather on Jul 8, 2008 at 09:35 PM
I am someone who has lost hundreds of dollars worth of food due to the storm. I am working and going to school full time to provide better for my family. My husband is working as well. However we do recieve assistance because we dont make enough. I am concerned that people are taking advantage of this aid and those of us that really do need it may suffer because of other peoples actions. I have not apploied yet, however I have heard that all you need is the paper filled out and an ID. How can they confirm power was really lost and food items were lost as well. Are they actually checking OPPD to confirm the outage? Im sorry but i am in one of those families that are in need of the assistance and am working. This upsets me if it becomes a free food stamp to everyone not those who really need it situations. Am I the only one who is thinking this?

Posted by: t on Jul 8, 2008 at 09:20 PM
yes, some people may not be in need! Don't judge, if you have never been in the situation where you have to rely on any low income assistance be thankful! For many people "life" happens! To those who are just abusing the "system", you are just making hard for those who are really trying to do right! That's sad!!!

Posted by: A on Jul 8, 2008 at 08:58 PM
Such a bad idea! The state is more then willing to hand out money to those who have a light hint of bad luck (and most likely to those who will take advantage of a free handout) instead of helping real families who have been stricken with harder times for years. Atleast most of these people had food in their fridges, heck to lose that one time and whine about it is so frivolous compared to those who haven't that sort of luck in the first place. The State should be far more cautious with this easy handout, and it's welfare program in the first place. Base it on true need, not stupid statistics. Darn I wished I could have had $200 dollars worth of food sitting in my fridge for just one day's worth of dinner. That's more like a month and a half.

Posted by: dave on Jul 8, 2008 at 08:56 PM
people take what they can take, even if it is dishonest. Nobody knows what these peoples lives are, they could really need the help. My opinion is majority of them are there to get a free hand out, the rest will probably get screwed. Fema will run out of free food stamps and the poor will get poorer and the rich gets richer shame on you.Give the needy a chance

Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 8, 2008 at 07:38 PM
I'm a state worker in the food stamp program. This whole thing is poorly thought out and very ineptly applied. Am getting calls like 'where do I go for the food stamp giveaway?' Most of the people I have talked to are just out for freebies.

Posted by: jj on Jul 8, 2008 at 06:51 PM
Hey Dave... ever think that people need to rely on themsleves a little? You are as pathetic as they are... needing to blame someone...

Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 8, 2008 at 06:39 PM
How many of these people are there for just a handout not because they lost their food supply?

Posted by: Brian on Jul 8, 2008 at 06:14 PM
More leeching off of the system. How many of these people drove away in their Escalades chatting away on their cell phones? Too many is the answer. Self-respect left most of these people's lives long ago.

Posted by: Katie on Jul 8, 2008 at 05:27 PM
I hope the people that truly need assistance get it! I'm quite sceptical. Seems like the criteria listed is quite liberal and would be easy to lie about. With so many "honest" people out there "working", I can see this being abused- especially in North Omaha. FEMA is designed to help with disaster-relief, not to help you "save some money on groceries". In the footage on tv there are people on cell phones, drinking fast food sodas- how could you afford that if you're "stricken down by the storm"? GET A JOB!

Posted by: dave on Jul 8, 2008 at 04:46 PM
Typical George Bush and the republicans response to people in need...send FEMA, an inept and understaffed agency that obviously hasn't learned anything since Katrina. Goodbye Republicans and good riddance Bush. Open for TWO hours to serve a city of nearly half a million, what a laugh!

Posted by: CS on Jul 8, 2008 at 04:05 PM
Who's fault was it that food sat in a fridge with no power?! I'm from rural nebraska where common sense is a little more common. Get a cooler with ice or take your food to a friend/family house to keep it fresh!!

Posted by: Mike on Jul 8, 2008 at 03:27 PM
Have people not heard of ice and a cooler..sounds like another opportunity take another handout.

Posted by: Rather Not Say on Jul 8, 2008 at 03:18 PM
I wish you would have printed the income qualification.

Posted by: I smell something a foul on Jul 8, 2008 at 02:39 PM
Wow! This system reeks of fraud! I am sure there are legitimate people out there who DID ACTUALLY lose groceries. I too was affected by the storm--and I live on 132nd and Maple--but you don't see me standing in line for a handout--- I am instead at work and letting my insurance company handle that! People should have to prove that they lost food by providing recent food receipts, have storm damage, and records should be checked with OPPD that the household that they are claiming did not have power did infact not have power.. Nice to know my tax dollars will be wasted on false claims! You would have thought that FEMA and the states would have learned from all the Katrina fraud!

Posted by: Ebe on Jul 8, 2008 at 02:36 PM
All 4 sites are flooded with people, lines are long and start as early as 6 a.m. Fights are breaking out and police and rescue squads are being called out in some instances. WHAT IS SAD is that hundreds of people that lost NOTHING and had NO damages are getting on board this federal gravy train. If it was the state's money it would be alot more regulated! I was without electric 2 days and I'm not going to bother with this! Too much fraud and people wanting something for nothing as usual.