I am a single parent who is provided help for schooling through the Department of Health and Human Services. My only concern is that the help seems to come at a price. The price is self dignity.

There are many things I don’t like having to do at DHHS, but because I want to go to school and provide a better life for my child and myself, I grin and bear it. Unfortunately, the people providing such help are sometimes rude and impersonal. I am never greeted with a handshake or even a smile when going into the interview room. I know the social workers are overworked and underpaid, and that their caseloads are overflowing, but we need to find a common ground.

I think that the workers and clients should meet socially. Perhaps the DHHS could hold an annual picnic. It would give everyone a chance to know each other on a personal level, providing energy that is lacking during the interviews.

I write this, not in complaint, but to bring an awareness to the social workers at DHHS. When stepping out into that lobby and yelling a name over the crowd, they must remember there is a person attached to that name. Remember that some have left some of their pride at the door. Please, shake their hands and welcome them, and maybe the process will go along much easier for everyone.

Tricia Tomlinson, Lewiston

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