The State Fair, known locally as “The Great Minnesota Get-Together,” is a wonderful place for Sen. Franken and his staff to meet and greet constituents, hear feedback, and gain legislative ideas to bring to Washington, D.C.
 
But it also provides an opportunity to help Minnesotans with very serious problems. At the State Fair this year, a constituent came to Sen. Franken’s official booth and asked for assistance to help his two grandsons whose father recently passed away. Jodi, the boys’ mother, had made an inquiry to Social Security about benefits for her children, but was told none were available. After that, she let the issue go.
 
The grandfather, however, continued contacting anyone and everyone he could think of, to no success. In September, when he came to Sen. Franken’s booth at the State Fair, a staff member took his information and contacted Social Security directly. After speaking with their representatives, we helped set up a phone appointment for Jodi to go through the formal process of applying for benefits.
 
In late fall, the grandfather called to thank our office for helping, and to let us know about their successful outcome. His grandsons now receive Aid to Families with Dependent Children benefits from Social Security, receiving as well a back payment. Jodi, whose medical issues have limited her ability to drive, work, and make ends meet, said this could not have happened at a better time for the family.