New Orleans, La - Long lines and large crowds led to two DSNAP extensions in Orleans and Jefferson parishes. Saturday was the final day to apply for help for people with last names beginning with letters "N" through "Z".
"I heard that they kept extending it, so I came down today," said Anthony White. He says, like many, he lost lots of food in the post Isaac black out. "I had at least 5 or 6 hundred dollars. Like I said, it's not just me, I have a family of three people."
The scene Saturday was nothing like it was earlier in the week. However, there was a steady stream of people looking for help. Many were relieved not to see the huge crowds.
"The first few days out here it was like a mad house. There were just thousands of people out here," said one man. Another added, "This is my third attempt. Each time I came the traffic was diverted and it was a mess."
With extra days it appears most who wanted to apply have had a chance. According to officials with the Department of Children and Family Services, more than 90 percent of those who apply will get some level of assistance.
"We do have a denial rate," said Trey Williams with DCFS. "That rate has been less than 1- percent statewide. It's pretty consistent at each site."
As of midday Friday, the DCFS had distributed more than 52,000 DSNAP cards in New Orleans. More than 57,000 were distributed in Jefferson parish.
It's welcome help for many who say they are struggling in the wake of Isaac. "I gave my last 3 cents to the church this morning," one man said with a chuckle. Another added, "I'm a self-employed artist. The loss I had with all the refrigerated goods, it's going to help me out quite a bit."
The DSNAP application process has been extended in Terrebone Parish. The site at the Bayou Black Recreation Center in Houma will be open through Tuesday.
