Having a hard time reaching the DHHS call center?

A few people contacted me and I myself tried and had issues getting through to the call center for a few days, including today. I heard there was a fire this weekend close by the Koster Street location. I checked the DHHS Facebook page before contacting DHHS media to see if that fire or the weather is impacting the call center? There seem to be technical issues and loops in the phone system. 

While the end of the month and beginning of the month is busy and I am sure staff and phone lines are being impacted even more if people cannot get through.  Many people who work have had to get assistance from DHHS starting with COVID closures and other impacts on the economy. Cost of living has gone up for everyone but when you are struggling and have to be out in this extreme weather, basics like food and shelter are not a small inconvenience.

DHHS Communication's Christine Messinger responded, "Thanks for reaching out. We have been experiencing some short staffing between unfilled positions and staff out sick or on leave. Today specifically, we also have staff out for training. As always, we encourage community members to visit www.BenefitsCal.com to apply for and manage their benefits."

On Friday afternoon, I could not get through to the DA's phone line. This morning, the phones were operational. 

After this post, a reader told me the Sheriff's Department had phone problems last week. Another reader mentioned issues with schools.

Found this after the post on 3/5/24 while looking at the elections Facebook page. Obviously no one is looking at the County of Humboldt Facebook page. A press release should have been sent out.