The Director of the Western Regional Office for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Mr. Charles Tobin, has praised the local ASNAP Program.
Making his first visit to the Department of Human and Social Services and ASNAP, Mr. Tobin shared with DHSS Director Muavaefa’atasi John Suisala and the Program leadership that, “ASNAP has operated a robust program under your leadership, and I look forward to learning your processes and EBT implementation strategy.”
Being of Samoan descent with ties to both American Samoa and Samoa, Director Tobin shared his vision to expand access for underserved populations, with a special focus on the unique challenges and opportunities in American Samoa and other Pacific jurisdictions.
Before becoming the WRO SNAP Director in November 2019, Mr. Tobin served in the U.S. Army for almost 35 years before retiring as a Command Sgt Major. During his military career, he served with Governor Lemanu, First Lady Ella Mauga, and many other Toa o Samoa with whom he was able to reconnect during this visit.
In addition to meeting with Governor Lemanu, First Lady Ella Mauga, Chief of Staff Loa, and a few members of the Cabinet and Governor’s Office, Director Tobin saw ASNAP employees in action as he arrived during the first week of mass issuance for food stamps.
He also witnessed first-hand the process of picking up food stamp coupons and he was able to address DHSS employees when he attended Christmas caroling practice.
