First Posted: 11/16/2013

LUMBERTON — The Robeson County Board of Commissioners will be asked Monday to provide financial assistance so that clients whose food stamp benefits are delayed because of glitches in the state’s new computer system can purchase food.

The request is being made by Becky Morrow, the director of the Department of Social Services. Morrow says in a letter to the board that her department needs $5,000 to continue issuing $50 and $100 vouchers to be used by food stamp recipients to purchase food.

In late August, Morrow said that problems with the state’s Families Accessing Services through Technology — NC FAST — have caused a delay in more than 2,000 cases of food stamps being distributed. Morrow also said that the problems are not unique to Robeson County.

When all the glitches are worked out of the system, NC FAST is expected to make it more efficient for benefits to be distributed.

To offset any hardship for affected families, DSS is continuing to operate a food pantry.

In other business, the commissioners Monday are expected to:

— Hold a public hearing to close out the Fiscal Year 2010 Community Development Block Grant Scattered Site Program. During the 2010 fiscal year, the program provided for the replacement of four homes in Robeson County.

— Consider appointments to the county’s Board of Health.

— Hear presentations from representatives of the Robeson County Arts Council and Exploration Station.

The meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the county administration building on North Elm Street.