Watch the discussion here. 

Hopkinton, NH - Today, Representative Annie Kuster (NH-02) hosted a virtual constituent coffee meeting to hear from constituents her office has assisted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Kuster spoke with Susanna and James of Hopkinton, who experienced issues with passport processing delays, Samantha of Antrim, who was having difficulty getting the unemployment assistance she needed, and Kaitlyn of Nashua, who was having issues obtaining Social Security benefits for her sons. Kuster also discussed the constituent services her office provides. 

“The needs and priorities of Granite Staters are my top priority, and providing help with federal agencies is a crucial part of the work that my office does,” said Kuster. “The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unique challenges and left many people feeling more vulnerable than ever, so it was great to hear firsthand about the positive impact my office has had on people’s lives during this crisis. From helping to secure passports for students so they can continue with their education abroad, to getting children the monetary benefits they deserve, I am so proud of my staff for the work they do every day. People in my district who need assistance should not hesitate to reach out for support – we are here to help in any way we can.” 

“It was amazing. I can’t say enough about how [Rep. Kuster’s staff] listened to us, took us seriously, followed through on what they said they would do,” said Susanna from Hopkinton. Susanna’s family faced significant delays in receiving their childrens’ passports – jeopardizing their enrollment in school overseas. Rep. Kuster’s office was able to reach out to the State Department, whose passport office operations were at a standstill due to COVID-19 at the time.

“[Unemployment assistance] took a really long time to process. I was at the nine week waiting point… around that point I reached out to the Congresswoman’s office and the next day I received a message,” said Samantha from Antrim. “The next week I received approval and I started receiving weekly benefits and support.” Samantha was one of thousands of Peace Corps volunteers who had to return home prematurely due to COVID-19.

“I just felt like I couldn’t get anywhere and I was going to give up. I reached out [to Rep. Kuster’s office],” said Kaitlyn from Nashua. “[Her staff] got results for me right away. I really appreciated the help.” Kaitlyn reached out to Kuster’s office after facing difficulty receiving Social Security benefits she and her recently adopted children were entitled to.

People in New Hampshire’s Second Congressional District who need assistance can contact Representative Kuster’s office at 603-226-1002 or visit her website. 

Watch the discussion here. 

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