Gwinnett Daily Post

Camie Young

Congressman Hank Johnson touted his office's work to help constituents this week, excited to pass the $5 million mark for benefits.

Since he took office in 2007, Johnson has yielded $5,165,351.66 for more than 4,000 in need.

"Helping constituents solve seemingly intractable problems is what my district office does every day," said Johnson, a Democrat whose 4th district includes parts of Norcross and Duluth. "I'm proud that my staff has been able to help so many constituents receive the money and benefits due them from the federal government. Taking care of home first is my No. 1 priority."

In a press release, Johnson shared some of the success stories, including an elderly widow of a veteran who was on the verge of being homeless.

"I did not have the rent money and anyone to help me," the constituent is quoted in the release.

After three months of Johnson's office working the case with the Veterans Benefits Administration, the constituent received a $12,762 lump sum and $1,056 a month as income.

"You have given me a bill-free life," she said.

Johnson also helped a Decatur woman in need, who received $46,000 in retroactive Social Security benefits, and a Conyers woman who had 15 years of tax returns that needed an adjustment. She received more than $10,000.

Johnson's office has also helped nearly 1,000 residents dealing with pending foreclosures.

In one case, a letter from a congressman caused a bank to reverse the foreclosure of a Stone Mountain home and reinstate a loan with a reduced interest rate.

For help, call one of Johnson's offices 770-987-2291 in Georgia or 202-225-1605 in Washington.

Information is also available online at hankjohnson.house.gov.

Camie Young can be reached via email at camie.young@gwinnettdailypost.com.