Administration of the Department of Human Resources' Supplemental Food Program

A recent review of the District of Columbia's Department of Human Resources' (DHR) Supplemental Food Program revealed serious management and accouting control deficiencies, including inadequate management of the food warehouse operations, poor inventory procedures and practices, inaccurate and/or unavailable records, and poor physical security. It was recommended that the Supplemental Food Program Office improve its management of the program, reduce excess quantities of food on hand, take monthly inventories of food and coupon books, improve security over coupon books, establish and maintain complete and accurate records pertaining to food and coupon books, and establish limits on the use of food for demonstration and/or refreshments. DHR has issued internal policies and procedures which meet most of these recommendations. The Director, Office of Municipal Audit Inspection, should make a review within the next several months to assure that all recommendations have been implemented and that the program is being effectively operated and should periodically review the program in the future.