I think Stan Wheeler’s recent letter to the editor is a good example of why people should research the claims they hear rather than simply accept and repeat them.
For instance, Mr. Wheeler argues that we shouldn’t give SNAP benefits of $300-$900 to people with “3-5 illegitimate children,” and that the money should go to retirees. However, according to the government data, only 35.5% of SNAP benefits go to households with children under age 18. The rest are distributed to the elderly (31.4%), the disabled (18.8%), and adults with no children (15.9%).
In addition, the claim that “able-bodied” people shouldn’t receive benefits ignores two important realities. First, many retirees are still able-bodied and could continue working if they chose to – should they be denied benefits as well? Second, Mississippi’s minimum wage is $7.25 an hour. Even working full time – 40 hours per week, 52 weeks a year – amounts to only about $1250 a month before taxes. Do we really expect anyone to cover rent, a car payment, health insurance, and groceries on that income? The truth is many SNAP recipients are working but they still don’t make enough to make ends meet.
Finally, I would encourage Mr. Wheeler and all readers of The Commercial Dispatch to learn more about the people receiving SNAP assistance by volunteering at one of our amazing local nonprofits, such as St. Vincent de Paul, Helping Hands, The Salvation Army, or The Homeless Coalition. I can personally attest that when you do, your perspective on both the program and the people it serves will change.
Raymond Barranco
Caledonia
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You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 30 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
