North Charleston Experiences Significant Increase in SNAP Fraud Cases

North Charleston Faces Rise in SNAP Fraud Cases

North Charleston, S.C. – The quaint city of North Charleston is facing a troubling trend as reported fraud cases for those utilizing the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, are on the rise. This alarming uptick has gotten the attention of the Department of Social Services (DSS), which is sounding the alarm for residents who rely on these benefits to put food on their tables.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

According to the DSS, the number of reported electronic benefit fraud cases has skyrocketed in recent months. In August, there were approximately 302 cases, but that number surged to an astonishing 1,962 by October. This sharp increase has left many questioning how to better protect themselves against such deceitful tactics.

A Personal Encounter with Fraud

One resident, Rawshawn Clark, is a stark example of how these fraud cases can rip families apart financially. Clark has been relying on SNAP benefits for over a year but was devastated when she saw unauthorized charges totaling $632 on her EBT card just as her benefits renewed this past month. “I felt naked,” Clark shared. “I felt stripped when I found out that this happened.”

The Strain of Thievery

For Clark, the emotional toll of falling victim to fraud is one thing, but the implications of being robbed of her benefits have put intense strain on her ability to feed her family. DSS chief external affairs officer Connelly-Anne Ragley knows just how devastating this can be: “This is, to me, some of the worst theft that can occur,” she stated. “It’s stealing the funds out of people’s mouths.”

How DSS is Responding

In response to Clark’s situation, DSS stepped in quickly to ensure she received her November benefits early. However, this also means that she will now have a longer waiting period for her December benefits. “I’m frustrated and stressed about what to do in between,” Clark mentioned, highlighting the ever-looming issue of food insecurity that many face in similar situations.

Understanding the urgency, Ragley emphasized that DSS is working diligently to connect individuals with local resources like food banks and nonprofits, which can sometimes be hit or miss in terms of availability. “Some food banks are only open on certain days, and others are running low on supplies,” Clark noted, revealing another layer of the struggle.

Future Uncertainty

Adding to the concern is the uncertainty related to the potential reimbursement of stolen benefits. Ragley explained that the federal government would need to extend the program’s deadline, set to expire on December 20, in order for any reimbursement to happen. “What happens after December 20? We don’t rightly know,” she admitted, leaving many families anxious about their immediate future.

Protecting Your Benefits

For those who rely on SNAP benefits, experts recommend using the Connect EBT app to track charges made with their benefits. This is the only DSS-approved app, and users can monitor their transactions easily to avoid surprises. Additionally, it’s advisable to change the EBT card PIN regularly and remain vigilant about unexplained charges.

A Call for Quick Action

Clark expressed a hope for better systemic solutions to protect clients and their benefits in the future, suggesting that there should be rapid assistance for those affected by fraud—allowing them the chance to stabilize before worrying about repayment. “Some type of better system to protect their clients as a whole is fundamentally needed,” she said.

If you suspect you’ve been a victim of SNAP fraud, it’s crucial to act quickly. Residents should report the incident to DSS and local enforcement right away. Those facing electronic fraud have a window of 30 days to file a report in order to reclaim their benefits. The DSS customer service line at 1-800-554-5268 is available 24 hours for emergencies.

Stay informed, stay vigilant, and let’s work together to ensure everybody in our community has enough to eat.