Searching for People in Need

Mary Jane Blaine, left, with Elsie Trammel, who receives food stamps. Blaine wants to sign up other seniors who qualify but may be hesitant. (By Tracy A. Woodward -- The Washington Post)

Blaine, who is responsible for signing up food stamp recipients in seven counties including Loudoun and Fauquier, uses brochures and posters for assistance. Even with props, she often encounters reluctance at senior housing centers such as Madison House Apartments.

"I think it's a generational difference. My generation wanted to be independent and take care of ourselves," said Blaine, 62.

Food bank officials said that some seniors mistakenly believe that by accepting food or signing up for stamps, they would be taking food away from children and families.

"It's unfortunate, because if they did get help, they could free up money for medical bills and other things," Blaine said.

Elsie Trammel, 80, a resident of Madison House, has no qualms about accepting food stamps. She has done so since the days when she was raising six children and worked two or three jobs to make ends meet, she said. Now, knee problems prevent her from visiting the grocery store, so she takes advantage of programs that deliver food.

"It don't bother me as long as I get the groceries," Trammel said. "I wasn't born with a silver spoon in my mouth."

Becky Russell, 62, and her husband, Buck, 74, also Madison House residents, are retired carnival workers who have received food stamps for eight years. Russell said she understands why some would feel uncomfortable asking for help.

But she said Blaine does a good job of putting people at ease.

"She doesn't make you feel like a different person," Russell said. "She makes you feel like you can talk to her about things."

And that is Blaine's hope. "My job is more or less to make them feel comfortable," she said. "I tell them, 'You worked for it and earned it.' They deserve to improve their health and their lifestyle."

Once people warm to the idea, she sets up appointments. Then, in a private room, she answers questions and helps them fill out the applications.

Blaine estimates that she has signed up 20 people since June, half of them in Loudoun. With help from volunteers, she hopes to reach others.

"My goal is to reach anyone who's insecure about where their next meal is coming from," she said.