Local public assistance off ice now closed after cuts

Sanders County consistently has a poverty rate higher than the state average. With nearly a quarter of residents reportedly in poverty (although the number is thought to be higher), budget cuts have closed the area Office of Public Assistance that many depended on as a link to the state's safety nets for those in need.

The first round of cuts eliminated the direct phone lines that were available for applicants, leaving Helena's 800 number as the only avenue of communication, unless the clients could make the trip to the state office building for face-to-face interaction. But that is no longer an option.

Assistance with Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits were also available for county residents before the office shut its doors. Posted in front of the dark, empty office is a rack with brochures, information and applications for the benefits that were once processed there.

It looked as though the Job Service division in the building faced closure, but narrowly missed the cut.

"The bottom four locations on the Job Service Office were told to close their doors," said Job Service staff Bonnie Haun. "Our location was fifth from the bottom. Although I don't foresee anymore cuts happening in that regard, we would be first on the list if more cuts occurred."

While the cuts were made to ease financial burdens at the state level, they will likely hurt the rural areas affected.

Current and new benefit recipients should call (888) 706-1535 for assistance. Completed applications for various programs can be faxed to (406) 442-0009 or (877) 418-4533. People can also apply for benefits, check case status and report changes online at http://www.apply.mt.gov.