Hawaii Island resident Tijuana Bolkeim said she was disappointed when she had to leave the Hilo Hawaii Social Security office Friday empty-handed. Hawaii Island resident Tijuana Bolkeim said she was disappointed when she had to leave the Hilo Hawaii Social
Hawaii Island resident Tijuana Bolkeim said she was disappointed when she had to leave the Hilo Hawaii Social Security office Friday empty-handed.
Bolkeim arrived at the 111 E. Puainako St. location to apply for a new Social Security card for her young daughter Amy Leer, but quickly found out that wasn’t going to happen. Because of the federal government shutdown since Monday, Social Security field offices throughout the nation have limited services, which don’t include issuing new or replacement Social Security cards.
“I just wish I would have known they couldn’t help me ahead of time,” Bolkeim said. “It was a waste of gas and time coming all the way down here. The whole thing is kind of upsetting.”
Bolkeim is among many being turned away for multiple services unavailable until the shutdown ends. Along with not being able to replace Social Security cards, the Hilo Hawaii Social Security office and other Social Security offices will not be replacing Medicare cards or issuing proof of income letters.
Honolulu Social Security office representatives said the offices have had to cut back on the services provided and focus mainly on dealing with Social Security payments.
In the meantime, people like Bolkeim and Leer are left with no other option, but to wait.
Email Megan Moseley at mmoseley@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
