One thing I know for sure is the dire need of support we need in this country. I worked in the mental health industry since 2008, I know for a fact individuals living with mental health diagnosis, disabilities, and other challenges are feeling the disconnect pertaining to politics and where we stand today. The federal shutdown has impacted so many people it’s unread. And for this to be the longest in history with no end in sight is alarming.
One of the things I am seeing on social media is black single women with children are affected most by the SNAP benefits. This thought process annoys me so much and the stigma that people on SNAP benefits are lazy is down right gut wrenching!
Let’s educate ourselves for a moment, there are veterans, individuals who are homeless and those with disabilities that benefit from programs like SNAP. There are people who fought for this country, or worked their entire life that rely on assistance that can get them through the month.
Breakdown of Who Receives SNAP Benefits
White: about 37 percent; African American: 26 percent; Hispanic: 16 percent; Asian: 3 percent; and Native American: about 2 percent. (source is USDA)
Among those participating in the program, most are children, elderly persons, or individuals with a disability. In fact, 86 percent of all SNAP benefits go to households that include a child, elderly person, or person with disabilities. In addition, about 92 percent of all SNAP benefits go to households with income at or below the federal poverty line. (source is USDA)
What I don’t understand is why do we tear each other down when things like this happen? There are so many things I see on social media stating, “people are lazy and need to get a job,” or “stop having children and stop using the government,”. This is such an ignorant statement and it does a disservice to those who are on these benefits that deserves to be.
Hard times are on the rise and government assistance like SNAP helps those who are in need, whether its temporary or permanently. There have been plenty of people who benefit from SNAP in the past and just to think everyone is “using the system” is not a fact. Now do people use the system, I am not going to argue and say they do not, but there are so many other things that are being used and played with in front of our face and its time we stop tearing each other down and look at what is in front of us.
How did we get here? Is one question we all should be asking, it’s time to get involve, understand what is going on and be a help in our communities instead of a hinderance. I encourage you today to support your local grocery stores, organizations and resources because right now is the time where we all need each other.
If you know of a resource that can help someone in need, a food bank, or national support hotline be sure to list those resources below. It can help someone.