FOOD STAMP BENEFITS: NOT FOR THE LAZY OR FAINT HEARTED
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OBTAINING FOOD STAMPS: HARD WORK
FOOD STAMP APPLICATE: VALERIE DEAN BELEW
AGE: 58
EDUCATION: MASTERS LEVEL
Degree: M. Div.
RACE: CAUCASIAN/WHITE
PRESENT EMPLOYMENT: Listed below
- demand Studios: Contract Writer
- Curves For Women: Part Time Assistant
- googlesense: Professional Writer of On-line articles on Revenue Share Basis
- S & T Assessment & Counseling Services, Inc.: Contract IN-Home Substance Abuse Assessment Counselor
- www.poetrytogo.net: Self employed: Please visit site for details
WHY I AM A FOOD STAMP APPLICANT
Once upon a time I only needed one source of employment. I completed in-home substance abuse assessments on a contract basis for Fulton County DFCS, through S & T Assessment & Counseling Service, Inc. I also completed substance abuse assessments in other areas, as requested, as well as for the Department of Juvenile Justice, when requested; however the bulk of my work was done for Fulton County DFCS in Atlanta's inner city.
My income level dropped to below poverty level when Governor Sonny Perdue cut the Substance Abuse Treatment services budget by 24 percent in the state of Georgia, causing my referrals to cease. After my income level dropped from healthy lower middle class to below poverty level, I applied for food stamps. That was four months ago, and I am yet to receive them.
MY EFFORTS TO EAT REGULAR MEALS
Four months ago, I applied for food stamps after my monthly income through S & T Assessment & Counseling service, Inc., dropped to $200 a month. Since S & T generally paid two months after the work was completed, I still had two checks yet to arrive. They were greatly reduced professional pay at $1000 and $800, but adequate for eating purposes. I felt no need to apply for food stamp benefits, until it became obvious I would earn only $200 in an upcoming month.
PROBLEMS AT S & T ASSESSMENT & COUNSELING SERVICE, Inc.
My contract employer was obviously feeling the affects of both the budget cuts and the present economic crisis. Suddenly my checks were arriving late, first by three weeks, then by an entire month, then by over a month and a few days. My first food stamp application was rejected, because I could only produce one pay check stub. I could only produce one pay check stub, because S & T Assessment & Counseling service, Inc., owed me $200 that had been earned three months earlier, but was yet to be paid three months afterwards. The late check(s) also caused my bank account to overdraw, costing additional money in overdraft charges, and late fees on all of my bills. In the meantime, family and friends fed me with leftover food whenever they could do so, and I visited a food pantry.
WHAT THEN?
I received my food stamp rejection letter, and immediately drove to the Butts County Food Stamp office with my appeal request. When I did not hear anything, I hand delivered a letter, on July 1, 2009, now with the pay check stub I had finally received from S & T assessment & Counseling service, Inc., attached to the letter requesting that I be reconsidered for food stamp benefits.
On July 16, 2009, I had heard nothing, and once again hand delivered a letter to Butts County DFCS, requesting assistance with food stamp benefits. I also sent copies of this letter to everyone I knew, requesting that they forward it to as many people as possible, as I was then desperate for food and help. Two days later I mailed a letter to Butts County DFCS, stating that I would contact them every other day until I received some response to my correspondence. The next day I received a telephone call at home from my caseworker.
On July 28, 2009, I faxed information related to my income working at demand Studios, where I had began writing articles on-line for $15 each, but DFCS had still received no word from S & T Assessment & Counseling Service, Inc., in spite of attempts to reach them by telephone. I sent an email directly to S & T Assessment & Counseling Service, Inc., requesting that they send my income information to Butts County DFCS immediately, and provided my DFCS caseworker with any information I had in order to make reaching S & T staff easier. She reported that she had reached them on one occasion, but had failed to receive a call back from them verifying my income level or the amount of my last check.
On August 8, 2009, I faxed another letter to Butts County DFCS, reporting that nothing had been done about my application, though I had been living with less than enough income to pay my utility bills, or eat, for well over three months. I also mailed a copy of the same letter to Butts County DFCS via the postal service. I received a call back from my caseworker that day, who reported that S & T had finally sent information about the amount of my last check, as well as the date it had been sent. Upon further conversation; however, it became obvious that S & T had reported both the wrong amount of money included in the check, and an incorrect date for its arrival. I drove to Butts County DFCS, and hand delivered the actual check stub, and a bank statement proof of the date it was deposited into my account.
My caseworker approved my food stamp application inside her office at that time, and shared with me the exact amount of my benefits. I drove home, feeling I had finally accomplished something in that regard for the first time since I had originally applied for the benefits three months earlier. A few days later, I received a mailed verification of my food stamp approval dated August 10, 2009, and the summary notification informed me I would receive my card within a few days.
Today, August 28, 2009, I contacted my caseworker again to inform her that the card never arrived, and to ask if this is common, or cause for concern. She assured me that the card should have arrived within five days, and suggested I have the card voided, and allow her to request another be sent to my home. I did so, and hopefully, will receive a food stamp card within the next week. It has now been well over four months since my first application was completed for food stamp benefits.
CONCLUSION
People who request so called "hand outs" are not lazy, making no effort to support themselves, or all black. I have intentionally provided my name, and photo, in order to shamelessly debunk the common myth I hear among those of my own racial group, that crack addicted black moms are receiving all of the benefits. If they are, good for them! They have been able to accomplish more than I have, after making multiple efforts to receive at least those benefits I need. As food stamp applicates, we are not all unemployed, or uneducated, or drug addicted, and many of us work full time on lowpaying jobs. I have worked as hard on my food stamp application, as I have done on any of my employment sources, and with less results, though none of my work efforts are paying that well, either. Otherwise, I would not be seeking food stamp assistance.
When gainfully employed, I paid my required income tax, both to the federal government and to the state, and nobody expressed guilt about accepting either. As a United States citizen, and tax paying resident of the state of Georgia for many years, I believe my food stamp benefits should be here, and that I am as much entitled to proper diet and healthcare as the governor of the state of Georgia, who approved the budget cuts that left me with little or no income. I feel no guilt or shame over accepting either at the present time, and don't think anybody else should feel bad about doing so, either. Next time Sonny Perdue wants to cut the budget, perhaps he should consider cutting his own budget, salary and benefits, not those of other vulnerable Americans.
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what do you mean not all black, what a racist comment, I live in Texas and when I went into the office for the daycare program, it was majority whites and mexicans, what an ignorant comment
No matter what is said, someone will interpret it negatively; however, my comment does not assume that the majority of food stamp users are black, and your comment provides me with the opportunity to make that very clear. This article is actually meant to educate some of my white readers who imply at times with their words and behavior that black people rely on government assistance more than do whites. They probably believe that most food stamp users are black; from the way they talk, you'd think all food stamp users were black. The same people also hold some of the other attitudes discussed in the article, and my intent was to shed light on who the average food stamp user actually is. I do not have statistics on which races have more food stamp users, nor is that my concern. My concern is that people understand that many people who receive food stamps are also working full or part time, and also working as many hours as they can get on their jobs. The issue for me is materialism and greed, and looking down on people of any race based on their income level. Since you obviously already know that all food stamp users aren't black, the statement, which was actually meant to be the use of satire, was not meant for you. While I did not intend to offend anyone, I do find your name calling offensive. If you actually want to be heard, refrain from labeling people who are actually strangers as "racist" or "ignorant." You are showing your own tendency to allow emotion to do your thinking for you. You could have shared your assumptions about the statement, assumptions that were actually incorrect, and allowed me to explain how the comment was intended. If you have any doubts about whether or not I am a racist, perhaps you should read more of my articles. I believe you would realize that you misunderstood my motive in making the statement that offended you. Also, thanks for commenting. Being able to speak your mind is what makes our country free. I may not agree with what you said, or your manner of saying it, but I will defend with my life, your right to say it. (: Smiles
thank you for this. it totally makes sense to me. i have been struggling wtih them off and on for a couple years now in carroll county since my husband got laid off. half the time they lose stuff after I drop it off at their office. everytime i have a review they screw something up. then no matter how many times I call that week to ask why, if I already gave them this, are they asking for it again, then they wait till 4:57 on the last day its supposed to be handled by to finally call me back and tell me im lying and its too late to do anything now anyway and i should just start over. so then, i naddition to trying to figure out how to feed everyone, i have to pay a babysitter again to come back up there again to fill out the same paperwork again for them to lose something again so i can call again to have to start over again again. since i know everything well enough now, maybe they should just hire me and then things wouldnt get lost and i wouldnt need food stamps to help feed my kids.
Thank you for your comments. I have to admit that the question of why so many people have jobs who either don't choose to do them, or don't have the ability, while I am presently working for minimum wage, has occurred, though that was not the focus of my article.
I am sure all DFCS offices are working overtime, and must add that my personal caseworker was working on Saturday, on the day I drove by to turn in my proof of income from S & T, as well as the date the check arrived. I am sure mistakes can happen when people are working overtime, and dealing with unusually large caseloads; however, I did hope to stress in the article, that people who are receiving food stamps are not necessarilly happy about it, or accustomed to taking handouts.
Many of us would prefer to be working on jobs that enabled us to pay the higher taxes everyone else is complaining about, and drop the food stamp option, altogether.
Before my business failed due to Sonny Perdue's extensive cuts on substance abuse services in Georgia, I completed in home assessments throughout Atlanta's inner city, and my experience was that people of all races felt the same way we do. They were often working for minimum wage, either full time or getting as many hours as they were allowed, and preferred full time employment that would have allowed them to stop receiving food stamps, and pay their own monthly bills without assistance. That is the point my article is making. Applying for food stamps is a job in itself. LOL. Thanks again for commenting on my site.
Great article - I applied for Snap last year after my hours were cut to the bare bone by my employer due to the economy - I have lots of education - including Social Services education - but work part time and receive partial unemployment benefits - I waiting along time before applying for Snap - using credit cards to pay for food - eathing 1 time a day - using credit cards to pay utility bills and such. I have looked everywhere for work. I am over 55 years of age - and it has become obvious that employers want to hire youngster for any jobs out there (not that there are many jobs available). My current employer has a list of people we cannot work for in addition to them - due to compete clauses - and even is angry if employees apply for jobs with competitors. The Snap office has been beyond rude and hateful to me - I am following all the rules - doing the documented job search requirements - and working and getting partial unemployment. I document so much - in one year I have boxes and boxes of work search forms , copies of all the require, all the envelopes and letters, computer forms - because they lose most things - or accuse you of not turning them in. I am not allowed to use any of my work hours or unemployment compensation toward those job search hours (others can). I do not receive Tanf or Welfare benefits. It is obvious that the caseworkers want me gone from this earth. The phone calls they make, the way they speak to me is beyond rude. It seems there are different rules for different people. I would love to have a job - but not even fast food places within a 200 mile radious are hiring. The caseworker has called me names and has accused me of being lazy - says there are jobs everywhere. If that is so - then why am I at an office in another conversation with her and 100 other people are in the waiting room - also not able to find a job? Many of the clients are talking on expensive cell phones and drive to the office in almost brand new cars. If I had it to do over again - I would not have applied - it is totally humilating and abusive. I will never look at the government programs again the same way - there is definitely discrimination in how clients are treated.
Susan, it sounds like you are having a tough time. DFCS offices are pretty busy right now, and I think the wear and tear they endure from the recession causes them to be less than nice in many instances. I'm sure the unemployment office is dealing with the same thing; however, I would insist upon whatever I was entitled to without shame. I would also report anybody who was openly rude to me to his or her supervisor. I have not had the experience of open rudeness or name calliing, but assuredly, I would not accept it, and you should not do so either. Good luck. At 59, I am also having a tough time finding employment. Thanks for responding to my post.
Ironically, a friend and customer from my part time job at Curves For Women, brought me information about a position open at guess where? Butts County DFCS. I sent in my resume via email immediately, and asked my boss, a local business woman in this small town, if she knew anyone at Butts County DFCS. She happened to know the two highest level people there, and agreed to contact them via phone to suggest they take a look at my resume. Unfortunately, her father then had a heart attack, so I don't know if she was ever able to talk to them or not, but the possibility is there. At 59, they may be interested in someone younger, or may know someone already who they want to hire, but this is one way they could definitely get rid of someone on their EBT caseload. I would gratefully give up the "hand out" for a full time state job with benefits. LOL. I haven't heard anything yet, but it generally takes a while for state agencies to respond. We'll see what happens. Keep your fingers crossed, as I need a job, and would definitely be empathetic towards clients. (: v
I am so sorry for what you went through, Valerie. Please read my blog, check the early entries for my article "I nearly died the day I applied for food stamps." Hope things go better for you. I can relate, and I am caucasian!
I have worked part time for Curves For Women a year, now, and never thought I'd be this poor this long. Writing is definitely a release that keeps me from going mad, and I wonder if the recession will ever end. Thanks for commenting on my site, but you don't appear to be a hubpages writer. How do I find your blog. (: v
I am a working middle class black woman, who just applied for food stamps because I am living paycheck to paycheck. After I pay my mortgage, daycare costs, student loans, and other household expenses. I have like $40 to hold me over to the next pay period. I only make 42k a year, but I have 3 kids in which 2, I pay daycare costs in the excess of $1,000 a month. My husband lost his job so all 5 of us are trying to live off this income. I do not live above means, and my husband cannot find a job, even fast food wont hire him because they say he is overqualified. My mortgage would be the same as the cost of rent on a 2 or 3 bedroom apartment around GA, for those of you who might tell me to get a cheaper home. I anticipate the food stamp people will be denying my claims. It seems that you almost have to be desolate in GA in order to get any help.
I wouldn't advise you to give up your home, and yes, the state of Georgia offers little help. I don't know how it is in other states, but if I did not have a well to do, and very helpful family, I would be homeless, or living with no electricy, water, telephone or heat in the winter. Hang in there, Lea, I know its hard. (:v
Hang inthere ladies...To Lea- why are you paying daycare cost if your husband is not working, and no they will not approve your application if you put your husband on there. Just apply for you and the kids, and you might get somewhere. I also have a college degree and had to recently apply for food stamps, but I did not include my husband, just me and the kids and my application was approved in 30 days. My pay was dramatically cut do to furloughs. My suggestion is reapply as a single mother. and usually food stamp cases with children are approved much quicker valerie, but I enjoyed your article as well, and yes it IS hard work.
Hello michaeljordan. This article was written about a year ago, now, so I have been receiving food stamps for about a year now. I have been unable to find work in my field, though I do work part time at Curves For Women at minimum wage. It is tuff, but I am surviving, and still writing. Thanks for responding to my site. (: v
I hope someone has some information to help me through this forum that might help me. I applied for food stamps in Indianapolis, Indiana a month ago and within a matter of days was granted a benefit of 200.00, however I have yet to receive the card to get this benefit. have called the caseworker and she cannot help. Have called the customer service 3 times and have never gotten the ebt card. Now Im not even sure if they are mailing it, I could see it getting lost in the mail once but 3 times. Each time they tell me they will cancel the previous and mail another. I have verfied my address so much I am blue in the face. I dont know where to turn, so if someone out there can tell me who to call In indianapolis to get to the bottom of this, I would appreciate this. I really need the food. Please help or offer some advice please.
Hello Dee. I had my card get lost once, and had to have it resent, but it arrived after the first mishap. I know how hard that is, and the only thing I know to tell you is to keep at them until the card arrives in your mailbox. In the meantime, you might find out where the local food bank is, and ask them for help. Sorry, I can't offer anymore help than that, but I had to just keep contacting Butts County DFCS until the card arrived. (:v
You got a M.Div...Can you work for a religious programme, or some shit like that.
I could, but right now I'm certainly no spiritual giant. If God is out there, he or she doesn't seem to care much about my emotional needs for meaningful work. I can work for any substance abuse counseling program, or doing contract work using my certification. Most religious programs are too dogmatic for my comfort. (:v
Great Hub ! Welcome to HubPages too ! I never thought my financial situation would drag on this long either :(
How are things going for you now ?
Pretty much the same after a year. I work on a part time job, but my hours have been recently cut, and I am looking for other work in addition to it. I finally earned my first $100 on hubpages, but it took me a year to do it, and I earn that much most weeks working minimum wage. I obviously write for recognition and to impact the world, not for google dollars as they aren't many. (:v
hello, has anyone ever had an approval letter with an amount stated only to get two more letters of denial, foodstamp worker claims no mail from corp where my sons boss sent the form to be filled out and corp says they sent it. Now on the approval there is an amount in income, and it looks right for that time. I cant seem to get anywhere for him but to reapply and raise cain where he works to get the info back to us to use to reapply.
Hello armymom, For the first time in United States history over 40 million Americans are on food stamps, according to the latest statistics. My guess is that those who work for Family & Children's services agencies are overwhelmed, and making many errors. Is is a sad state of affairs for everybody. So sorry you are experiencing these problems. (:v
I am a black mother and I understand totally what you were saying. Unfortunately there are people who will misconstrue or twist what you say, we will ignore those people
Thanks buttscomom, Sometimes we have to overlook people who just don't seem to understand what we are trying to say. (:v
I have applied several times. I am out of work, my retirement money is all gone and was told by a DFACS caseworker do she need to call CPS on me. My kids are still taken care of. I was denied foods and TANF. I worked over 10+ years to help others received benefits and sell their food stamps. Okay I need benefits now.
Hello unemployed, just hang in there and keep applying. if you qualify they will have to come through for you. They try to avoid it because they are so overloaded, but if you qualify they will eventually have no choice. (:v
we just gave up, they could not get the check stubs from marvins to arrive to suit them, and my son had no way of getting them anymore, things had changed not for the better where he was working. He had applied for a further up job at HQ and had hoped he would get it, in tech support, what he was doing in fl before they prorated 49 people out of that school system over two years ago. He has worked one day weeeks, three day weeks, lucky to get a four and five day one, hurt his back and got nothing for a month and a half, we are still trying to get the phone bill caught up for us both, and i am falling behind on the house payment a little, hope to make it up when he is caught up before the end of the year, its not even a full payment so i think we can hang on that way a big longer while trying to do better. His brother rescued his car for him for now he needs to be able in nov to start paying him reg payments, they will be a bit lower so as to be able to catch up in time we hope. But we just have decided to forgo the food stamps and say to heck with them, and eat less, we need to loose weight anyway at this time, and i am buying basics with my 138 and making them go as far as i can, someone asked me why i cooked so much, its the math, i dont do it, we dont eat, because i can make it go further than fast, precooked foods allow it to go. So its a have to be here and cook so others can eat as well situation. I think we end up spending a good 100 between us all or more on food a month anyway to make it, those one pot meals and cheap buys are the only way we are going to make it. God provided me with free peppers and pears this year from my dads and i have frozen and cooked as many as i can, and when i find bananas for .15 a pound i buy them and make cakes and bread and puddings, its all in trying to find the marked down goods that are still good enough to eat and using coupons when possible, but buying store and no frills or outlet buys to get by on at the very least. good luck everyone, its a jungle out there.
yes, armymom, it really is a jungle out there. Thanks for returning to my site.
thanks at least you where brave enough to voice your feelings publicly about the system because it really sucks, and if you are not educated or knowledege about how it works and fight for your rights you loose. By the way Iam one of those black people that was turned down because i made one hundred dollars to much and Iam not being racist.
Hi Val,
Food stamps are hard to get, and there is nothing racist about saying so. I finally received a job offer last week, and am working nonstop to meet all the preemployment requirements so that I can start work on November 1rst. There are many expenses involved in going back to work, and many deadlines, and I may have to wait until November 16th due to the need for a chest Xray instead of a TB skin test. If I did not have family who could help, I probably would not even be able to go back to work due to not being able to pay for a chest xray without money or health benefits. It never stops, the financial demands on those who can't meet them. (:v
Hi valeriebelew - great hub. By the grace of god, or whom ever controls our destiny, I have never had to go through this situation. I can only imagine what it must be like for a person who has been self supporting, successful, self reliant, and proud of their accomplishments to find themself in this situation. To find oneself in need of one of lifes essentials such as food, but not knowing the system and what it takes to get assistance makes it extremely difficult.
Due to the economy, there are a great plenty of people who find themselves in the "assistance system" for the first time in their lives. Them not knowing the rules, or the shortcuts must make this extremly frustrating. In some cases, they could practically plant seeds and grow some food before they get their first assistance check. I feel very sorry for them.
On the other side of the coin are those who have been on assistance of one form or another for nearly their entire lives. They know and understand the "system" better than many of the employees that work there. They are familiar with "giveaways" that the average working person has never heard of, and they know how to get it. Some were taught this skill by their parents, who were taught by their parents, and they survive.
I'm sure that most first timers, like yourself, would much rather have a decent job, and get out of the system as quickly as possible. The long term system abusers have no such desire, and will continue to take as long as the system exists.
Is there a simple solution to this problem? I doubt it. Can it be fixed? I doubt it. The assistance agencies are so overwhelmed with first time applicants, they don't have the manpower or resources to focus on the abusers of the system.
The best fix I can think of would be to fix the economy so more people can be gainfully employed, and leave this nightmare behind them. Then, and only then, could they start focusing on the system abusers.
Congratulations on your new job and I hope things turn out well for you and others who found themselves in your position.
Dear Old poolman, during Bill Clinton's administration welfare reform was passed and instituted. People under 50 years of age are typically not allowed to remain on food stamp benefits for over three months, though there may be exceptions in this present economy. However, unless that has changed, people cannot remain on foodstamps or other public assistance indefinately or "most of their lives."
valeriebelew, you might be shocked if you knew the real world truth. Even some dead people still receive benefits and the checks are cashed. I'm very glad you found a good job and dont need assistance anymore. Welfare reform is only as good as the people doing the monitoring and the resources they have available. Do you honestly believe there are no abuses of the system?
Old Poolman, of course there are abuses of the system, but there are certainly abuses on Wallstreet that cost us a lot more money. (:v
valeriebelew- I am glad to see you have not caved in to the racist sentiment that some are trying to infect you with. Some poor Americans find it so much easier to blame other poor Americans. There is always imaginary "abusers" of the system(mostly Blacks and Mexicans are to blame)instead of looking at the system as a whole. The American government sucks and as a Caucasian, I am ashamed to say that it is mostly old white men that have done the damage. Not only to social services but education and healthcare as well. Revolution is almost a curse word now but it is a word that puts fear into the rich and political. We Americans need to take back our country from the traitors, politicians who have sold us out with their laws in support of big business and foreign interest. How much longer are we going to tolerate this treatment by those we elect then turn on us once they make it? This is not about race anymore. It is about class and if you don't have the dollars to have your voice heard then you don't have a voice...but only if you stand alone. If we all stand together and shout, they have no choice but to hear...and to listen. America is in a pivotal state right now and the Department of Human Resources is just a fraction of what is wrong. This is the first time in American history where the people just sat and did nothing while repeatedly being raped by their own government. Is it true? Are we the stupidest people in the free world?
Simpsoncat, As for your last question, sometimes I wonder. I couldn't believe America went Republican this last election after so much home when Obama was elected. No one can correct the problems George Bush left us with overnight. People are fickle and expect miracles in a day. Amen to everything you said. Thanks for responding to my site. (:v
I want to let you people who say sell ur computers. My parents bought it for my daughter,she needs it for school work, so no I cannot sell the computer. I think the public school district has too many things that you need a computer for. Also If you try to look for work and you do not have a computer you are practically handicapped,from filling out applications. Why are you people so worried anout others who need the food. Stay off this site if you do not need foodstamps, obviously you are fortunate and ignorant. People are stealing just to get by. YOU people are ignorant and have no compassion for others. As poor as I am I was downtown for support payments that I never receive. I had my favorite pair of old jeans in the back of my car and gave them to a homeless woman. Now I do not even own a car anymore. So I would take the shirt off my back for others. Think about giving and not what others receive for free. Some people abuse the system. I agree about that. But some of these comments are heartless.
Thanks Lisa, You are correct that in today's world, a computer is a necessity. I found full time employment since writing this article, and found my present job via computer, where most jobs are found these days. If I had listened to the comments from people who wanted to punish me and others like me for needing public assistance, I'd still be on foodstamps. As it is, I am now contributing to the system as a taxpayer, and yes, I still support everything I wrote in this hub.
Ignorance, arrogance, and greed are the problems here. There is plenty of food and money in the U.S. to feed everyone in it. When those who wish not to share become needers of foodstamps, they will understand their value, and quite frankly, I hope it happens. Thanks for commenting on my site. (:v
A great Hub.
All our problems will be solved when all our politicians discover some altruistic values.
I hope we are not waiting in vain.
Thanks spdarkstar, I hope we aren't waiting in vain myself. I'm still waiting for less partisonship, and more concern for the common good. (:v
thank you for sharing this. it's great to FINALLY read something positive about getting benefits. usually all i read is about how we are "lazy, uneducated and don't work". i work, but i only work two days a week at a local grocery store, so i had no choice but to apply for benefits!
paige, at the time I wrote this hub I was working part time for minimum wage. I am now working full time and have benefits, but I also have a looooong memory. If I ever vote republican again, I hope somebody shoots me. I voted for Obama and will do so again. (:v
Thanks for writing this article! I am so glad to know that I am not the only person who has to fight with DFCS over food stamps...though my situation is different. I moved in with my now fiance and his parents and because he is under 22 he was not supposed to be able to be considered a separate household so if he was going to be on my case we were supposed to have had his parents and their income listed as well. Well, being the average citizen, I was not aware of this law and NO ONE (not the call center that added him, not the 2 caseworkers before my current one, and not the supervisor for my former and current caseworker) caught this until this week. He has been on my case for over a year, making the total amount of food stamps he recieved over 2,000. They are telling me that they have to report me for fraud and I have to pay this amount back. Because THEY messed up. How fair is that???
Hello depressed. Basically, I wouldn't accept that if you told them everything you knew to tell them and no one objected until now. I would not accept a food stamp fraud determination, because you'd never be able to get them again if you needed them afterwards. I'd appeal that decision. If you did not deliberately keep a secret you have done nothing wrong. Thanks for reading my site. (:v
Valerie,
Congrats on landing that full-time job!
I can relate to "Depressed's" situation. To make a long story short, my caseworker has threatened to take my income tax refund in resitution for overpayment of food stamp benefits I requested be terminated IN writing and did NOT use. Even a DFCS representative at the Call Center agreed with me I am NOT liable for money I haven't spent.
Needless to say, I have officially appealed this determination. And, I agree with you--"Depressed" needs to do the same with her case.
great appalled and appealing, DFCS workers are generally bachelor's level low paid staff who are overworked. Many mistakes happen due to too many cases and not enough staff. Frustrated and overworked people make bad decisions and are neglectful often. Most mistakes are not intentional, but we must make them pay attention to oversights. Appeal, appeal, appeal. That's what I'd do.
Valerie--
Good news! There is no need for an appeal, as my case manager was able to resolve my claim amicably, once she got with the "right" person and received the "right" information.
I agree. They ARE overworked and underpaid.
Glad to hear it, A and A, things usually work out in time but it is a challenge. Thanks for coming back to let us know. Many need hope. (:v
Glad to hear about your full time job success! However I do have a few comments regarding your job focus and political/ race talking points. A poor, pro-democrat (ie: pro Obama) Caucasian woman complaining about a poor fed system on food stamps?.. Honestly, it may well be a reason why finding a job was so difficult in the 1st place. Most manager’s in my industry would hold your political opinion as a negative if discussed during a job interview.
Your hard focus on staying in a narrow focus of work is risky – as you found out unfortunately. I simply never understood why so many keep doing the same things and expecting a different and better outcome? Point being to try something radically different. Maybe sales or real estate or selling insurance or even pharmaceutical rep?... BY finding reasons to Not do something different and staying in your comfort zone, you simply limit your options for building a better life… (This is just a comment not criticism because most people do exactly the same thing)
Regarding your “Surprise” on the country going republican again?..why are you surprised?.. Obama’s agenda is basically anti-American. The oil moratorium is and was illegal. Judges have ruled against it and Obama’s DOI group. The stoppage of drilling wells has helped drive oil over $100 / BBL again… Do you really think Obama’s inner circle hasn’t made a fortune off this change? Do you really think Obama cared about the thousands of laid off oil field related worker in Texas and Louisiana.
For that matter , do you really think Obama cared about the 11 that died on the Horizon oil rig? .. I KNOW for a fact that evidence showing criminal negligence was buried by BP and the federal investigation because it would have led to a trial and possible prison time by certain BP staff…Staff that were instrumental in setting up the $20 billion fund and earlier in supporting the Obama campaign… To protect them the whole thing again criminally negligent project engineer and manager was hidden… Sorry that is the real world talking and sharing the truth that many will choose to disbelieve because they can’t handle the truth..
You and every other legal voter supporting Obama were tricked and betrayed. Bush was better and that is a sad statement… Anyway best of luck with new job… Obama’s stimulus and health care needs the tax revenues ;)
Hello Jman, thanks for visiting my site and sharing. One thing I'd like to say is that you assumed wrongly when you assumed I did not seek work other than in my own field. Unfortunately, in today's world and our present economy, it is not that easy to find lucrative work outside of one's field. I applied for many sales positions, as I had a history in outside sales prior to earning my Master's Degree.
Also, I don't discuss politics or food stamps in job interviews, nor do I discuss religion in them. You assume a whole lot about me, and obviously anyone who uses foodstamps for any length of time. I am wondering what your level of education is since you seem to believe that seven years of formal education should be forgotten in favor of seeking jobs in which you have little or no experience. I found work faster than many have, and there was no problem in the way I looked for it. The problem is that Georgia is a republican state that values wealthy corporations over workers and tends to resent public servants. You certainly have a right to your opinion, but please know somebody a little better before you start giving advice. You know nothing about how I seek work or how I conduct job interviews. Sunny Perdue was my problem, not my job search or job interviews. He cut the budget in services this state needs, and for which I spent many years studying. The solution is to vote the republicans out in this state, not to blame the victims for the actions of greedy corporations and greedy politicians. I support the president and disagree with your view, however, I am glad we live in a country that allows you to express it. (:v
Getting an keeping food stamps has been an almost full time job since my the non profit agency my husband worked at for 14 years closed in April 2010 because the Executuve Director mishandled funding. I am disabled and was approved medically disabled for SSI but due the fact that my husband receives unemploymnet I can not get any SSI money at this time. We had 2 children, one in college.
We have been though 2 fair hearing where it was decided by the adminstrative law judge that the food stamps caseworkers had made mistakes. We arfe now going through another fair hearing because they are again making miscalations. This is addition to of all the wrong iinformation the caseworkers have given me, them requesting the same documents they already have,
I just pressed the submit button by mistake.I hadn't head time to go over the grammar and spelling mistakes or edit .I am rewriting the letter now.
Getting on and keeping food stamps has been an almost full time since 2010. Our caseworkers have miscalculated many times which lead to 2 fair hearings where it was decided that the caseworkers had made the mistakes and our stamps were reinstated. We are now again having another fair hearing where I am confident it will be determined again the caseworker was wrong. We had been given wrong information on almost all our questions,submitted the same documents over again after they misplace them,we have been treated disrectfully by caseworkers who are incompetent and most likely less educated than most people in this county applying for food stamps.
I do not think it helps to just complain and not at least try to do something about it. I wrote a complaint letter yesterday on the website I found for complaints to the Govener"s ofice of California for complaints on Social Sercice offices. This seemed to have made the Regional Manager of my local office to take notice and he called me and sent an email to me that he is looking into my concerns and will get back to me.
I then looked up on the internet about how hard it is to get a civil servant worker fired and it is very difficult. However ,I think the more people that file complaints about the same person or dept.,the more likely something will change.
Our local office has already been in trouble for mistakes on food stamp benefits for years,which I read about in the local newspaper. I think if you don't complain to the top level the other food stamps applicants will deal with the same incompetencies of their worker.
Yes, Laura, speaky wheels definately get greased.
Interesting situation with my good friend’s neighbor that relates a bit to some of the topics in your hub. A family was just evicted for non-payment of mortgage. They apparently had not made a payment in over 1 year. The couple was of limited education, no children of their own and no job exactly. The husband had quite his regular job some time back to expand their foster child care.
What they did do full time for last year was to provide foster care to 11 children receiving government support of ~$1,100/ month each as well as participate in food stamp and other assist programs.
They were very upset when leaving and shared a number of comments to my friend about how they were racially discriminated against for being evicted and that loans are harder to get now. They moved into apartment and plan to keep all the foster kids somehow. Interestingly enough they had fancy clothes, apple iphones, 2 very new vehicles ( Ford excursion, loaded and Chevy suburban also high end feature loaded), and ate well off the food stamp program.
The above is a real world example of a ~non working black couple with over $140,000 in government sponsored income with a high school level education.
If these people can figure out how to live well off the social services the democrats put in place long ago, I think college educated can do at least as well if and only if pride and stubbornness does not get in the way. Just a thought based on this near neighborhood event .
Interesting story, momad jim, though being college educated does even come close to granting the income you described in your comment. This hub was written close to two years ago. I've been working full time for six months now, and no longer need foodstamps, but with the corporate greed our nation is experiencing from the republican supported oil companies, there is little left for many of us after driving to work and back. Your story sounds somewhat fabricated or grossly exaggerated to me. Please don't take offense, but it sounds like the product of a republican written email to the masses with no validity, that no one can prove actually happened. One more stereotyped image of black people similar to what Hitler put out about the Jews shortly before he began gassing them by the millions, but then you probably don't believe the holocaust was real either. College education means little to republicans who only feel that those who are already rich and republican have a right to expect quality lives. (:v
Sorry to disappoint, but the story above was shared with me by a trusted friend. He was living next to the couple that specialized in abusing foster care system. They apparently abused other government welfare related systems as well.
The point of the factual story did not relate to race or greed. It wasn’t even intended as a lesson about why liberal politics tend to get abused and misused.
The point was about the unfortunate human physiology of rigid , stubborn thinking and not being honest with one’s self about mistakes in the past. ( I know because I was guilty of the same think for years until I broke through –at least one layer of it- and greatly improved my situation. Many I used to work with are still too afraid of change to follow my example. Instead they make excuses and talk about how lucky I was...)
Point being, people are comfortable in blaming others for their own problems, shortcomings or disappointments. In your case perhaps blaming republicans or big corporations?
With respect, I would be comfortable in betting that your new full time job is still keeping you in a lower income situation. Why? Because you are used to it , accept it and have a large group of other “bad” people to blame for it. (ie: you’re in your comfort zone)
Again with respect –most people are the same way to different degrees. From what I can tell the more formal education a person has the greater the likelihood of that person being rigid or arrogant in their thinking.
Simple question- did you check online to see what foster care rates actually are before commenting? ( I assume the answer is no)
I checked online with respect to foster care. It appears that $150 to $400 day for foster kids is common. See link below.
http://www.michigan.gov/dhs/0,1607,7-124-5452_7117
That matches up very well with my friend’s neighborhood story. The point is that uneducated couple was “motivated” to find a way to make a lot of money. (I did not say honestly or ethically motivated- just motivated). Therefore instead of doing the same things and complaining about not getting better outcomes or blaming others, they “took action and tried something new” and found ways to succeed –in their own way.
While their example is a corrupted form on entrepreneurism, it is still debatably better than their previous lifestyle. They took advantage of a situation after researching a government policy weakness. The fault is more the government’s poor management and stupid anti American liberal policy support than the couples. What do you think?
Hello, Nomad, Hell, I don't know. I made a lot more money at one time, but I'm at my lowest level job and income in years. Still, its a job and I'm grateful for it. Say, did you hear about Osoma Bin Lauden? Probably misspelled the name, but you can figure it out. Whatever my income, I'm in better shape than he is right now. (:v
It isn't likely everybody is going to accept the truth of this article hub, and some people are going o insist on blaming the poor or anyone who isn't rich for being not rich when it is the rich who have the power to create the system that keeps them rich and allows few others to advance from their present social class. There is a difference between blaming the rich or republicans and simply stating the truth as it is. The republcan agenda is sort of nazi in that it defends the wealthy and maintains a system that rewards the wealthy and uses the poor to keep the wealthy that way, then stereotypes and blames the poor for being poor. I still don't think anyone is getting rich from doing foster care; however, foster care is a service that is needed and is actually a job since someone has to do it. Why is it any less respectable to take care of kids for a living than to work on wall street or for the republican party. That is another thing that is annoying to some of us. Why do republicans behave as if anything the government pays people to do is not work or shouldn't pay enough to make it worth doing. Government employees pay taxes too and some services need to be done simply because they need to be done for the betterment of mankind, not for profit or the amount of money someone can make. Republicans act as if greed is the only rightful reason money should be paid out and that any service that exists simply to make the world a better place should not exist. Sorry, but I think business needs to be regulated and regulated again. Any entity that exist solely for the purpose of making money should pay more taxes and should have less tax shelters. I'm glad foster care exists so that we don't have homeless kids cleaning chimneys like occurred in the early days of this country before child labor laws were instituted. I wouldn't want to work hard enough to do foster care and I'm glad someone else is willing to do it. Much of the money is required to take care of the kids themselves, anyway, but republican thinking is stuck on only private businesses paying enough money for services to get the job done. Figure it out. Foster kids need to be kept and fed and someone has to do the work. Government employees pay taxes and the services are needed. We don't need to privatise everything to the point to where if there isn't a lot of money things don't get done. Greed is not the only reason for work; some things need to be done simply because it is right to do them.
Hi Val,
Yes, I was surprised and happy to an extent to see the fall of Osama. The wild parties over his death are perhaps awkward from a moral position but it is good to see success by the military & CIA for once and some actual pride in the country by so many. We have so few examples of national pride in recent times that anything to enhance that deficit is good to see.
On your other comment- Doing what is right and what you believe in ethically is (or should be) more important than simply making money. I agree.
However resenting financial success of others and looking for excuses is not productive. The American dream was for this to be a land of opportunity that motivated citizens have the right ( and obligation?) to take advantage of and in doing so help themselves and sometimes the country as a whole. These opportunities can be noble or not but the opportunity and risks do exist. Those that choose to hide and avoid have that right but must accept the consequences. In cases that means very low income if they insist of certain types of work. This is fine but do not complain. If a person goes into missionary work for a church then income generation is not high priority obviously. However if that same person wants more income then he or she must make a change and not expect the government to simply give them more because they choose a low income, high ethics activity.
Trouble with regulating entrepreneurism and free enterprise is simply in the qualification and motivation of the “regulator”. If the US government was good at regulating then why is the social security system such a financial disaster? Why is the public school system failing in so many parts of the country, why is medicare & medicade a $ mess with rampant corruption and red tape , why is big insurance so profitable and corrupt ( why did my lady friend’s husband get a $1 million dollar bonus for 2010 , the Obama bonus as they called it (he is SVP at subsidiary of AIG insurance)...list goes on and on. Reason is the system is flawed and yes in many cases intentionally flawed by those wanting to take advantage. Yes, both republicans and democrats are very guilty of this action.
The politics is not that relevant to my point. Being happy and reasonably successful in what we do , at least in our own mind and that of our family and friends, is relevant.
Little is more impressive to me than those with the self motivation & courage and drive to admit they made long term tactical or judgmental mistakes and have the fortitude to make whatever changes they see fit and end up with a better result. This challenge is very, very rarely won by most people as it is much easier to blame something or someone and stay in a comfort zone … no matter how uncomfortable that comfort zone is…
Hey again, nomad. You made some very good points, however, I don't think Medicare or Medicaid are in any worse condition than the private interprises that recently had to be bailed out due to buying loans that weren't worth anything and counting on insurance companies to cover them that could not do it either. Lots of criminals both on Wall Street and in the government. You are probably reasonably young; it is not that easy to start a new career when you are close to retirement age. There simply is not enough time to start over at something new and build a larger income. Your advice is good for someone in his or her thirties or early forties, but I'm too old to begin again. I'm sure I would make another choice if I were young enough to do it and actually increase my income, but at this point the cost and time involved in going back to school and starting at the bottom would negate any positve outcome. There is a point in life at which you have no choice except to stay in your comfort zone as there simply is not enough time left to do anything else. Idealism is for the young, and I started again at 42. It is too late to do that again no matter how disillusioned I might be, and the money isn't there either. The economy also took a downswing and I'm not able to earn in this profession what I once could. Many things changed and left me old and with little money for new beginnings. Things just aren't always that simple. Still, for young people your suggestions are good.
I was just denied today after applying over a month ago. They say I didn't send in all the paperwork but when I last spoke with my caseworker she said they had everything they needed. My caseworker did not understand how I was going to pay my bills and I explained to her that I would not be able to pay bills in June. I told her I was going to try and borrow money from a family member, this person was not able to help and so I received no money. She now wants me to send her a letter from the family member who is supporting me financially. I also explained to her that before my job ended I had a saving account and have since spent that money to live one. I have sent bank records, a letter from my mortgage company, regime and utilities companies explaining how much I owe and how far behind I am. Can I get another caseworker?
Is it not amazing that many of us pay taxes for most of our lives and others claim we are not entitled to it when we need it the most. You have to be very poor in most cases to receive any of these entitlements to begin with. In other wards you have to remain extremely poor to continue to receive any help at all. There are many reasons to end up poor and sometimes getting ahead is one of those times, ask any college student.
Thank you so much for your story and I hope things get better for you and everyone else who are going through hard times. My husband works a full-time job, the pay is minimum wage and we have 2 kids. I'm unable to work, due to health problems, so we had to apply for Food Stamps and Medi-cal because his job doesn't have medical benefits. It was a long and lengthy process, but we were literally living pay check to pay check. You may as well say that for him to get paid every 2 weeks, one went on rent, and the other bills and the cycle started over again next check. At the time that we waited to first receive our Food Stamps..we were in dire need of food..we survived by the graces of God, and we're doing better now because of the Food Stamps. Some people really need to get their heads out of the clouds and stop thinking that only lazy people are abusing the system. My husband works 6 days a week and only gets 2 Holidays a year off, and now they've cut his hours.
And @jessie...if your caseworker is giving you a hard time, go over their head and talk to their supervisor, and if that doesn't work...go over their head. I have two friends who work for Department of Social Services, and the things they used to tell my about the caseworkers would shock you. Somewhat off topic, but I must say this...when my youngest was old enough to go to Head Start, I applied, but come to find out that you literally have to be scraping the bottom of the barrel. I took his tax return, and they told me that he made too much money and that the amount he made that year was for a family of 7 (there's only 4 of us)!! It was barely over 30,000. I couldn't believe it. So i did what any mother would do, I taught her at home, and at the age of 4, she started Kindergarten and she's doing exceptionally well in school. I never thought that a child would be denied an early education.
Hello its ownly me, I have actually been working over a year at this point, but many are still dealing with this situation, so I leave these articles on hubpages for people to read. It is tough, and no one can live well on minimum wage. Don't blame you for homeschooling. Just be glad you have enough education to do so. For those who can't, its a cycle of lack of education and poverty. Best wishes for you and yours. (:v
Hi Valerie, enjoyed reading this hub as sums up my experiences with applying for food stamps in Los Angeles. My husband and I spent 4 hours one day and 6 hours the next only to be rejected. Yes you are not lazy if you get up and stand in line, sit through waiting to be called by your case worker, copy all the documentation requested, complete all the forms and wait and wait only to be told NO without any explanation. We were unemployed and had no means of income not even unemployment benefits. Just as well...it made us fight to find jobs and forced us to look outside the box. Don't care to revisit applying for food stamps ever again!
I can relate!!! I just contacted a civil rights activist asking, how can I file a civil rights discrimination when on the form it asks, "What rights has been violated"...Social class is missing. Hello...someone needs to do something about this!!I will be emailing Michelle Obama soon. Especially since here in L.A. they are so worried about people not applying for food stamps. Afraid people go hungry when they shouldn't. Maybe we wouldn't dread applying if we were treated with a bit of respect and not like poor trash. I also am not lazy but a full time time student mother of four finishing up my B.S. in Accounting and planning to start my MBA after, while working I hope!
I went through a similar situation and come out on top by presenting all my information to the supervisor and letting her read the letter I had prepared for her, my caseworker, the local news and government. I received benefits the next day. I could not let my children go hungry due to the laziness of Fulton County DFCS. Check out my article.
I hope all is better and I want you to stay encouraged!
HUBBY LOST JOB AFTER 29 YRS. SIGNED UP FOR MEDICAD AND FOODSTAMPS. 4 TIMES I HAVE HAD TO REAPPLY. THEY HAVE BEEN RUDE. TOLD ME THERE'S MONEY COMING IN WHEN THERE ISN'T. THEY HAVE HIS BIRTB YEAR WRONG WHICH I HAVE GIVE HIS PICTURE LICENSE. IYS BEEN DEGRADING PROCESS!!!!! DOES ANYONE KNOW IF YOU HAVE TO REPORT INCOME TAX OR 401K? THANK YOU VERY MUCH!GO DEMOCRATS!
I live in PA, but I work for the city of NY. I haven't had a raise in 4 years and I'm a single mom with three children. I have a BA degree but it doesn't do much in this economy. I just recently apply for Food Stamps in PA and was disqualified, not because of my income this time, but because my mom lives with me and I didn't list her as applying only because of a slight misunderstanding on my part.
It's a shame that you have to be dirt poor to get any government assistance, in a country where you faithfully pay your taxes.
Oh you soon find yourself stared at like you have two heads at the cash register. I was injured at work. I will never find a job in this economy. My degree will be of no service to me, as soon as the repo man can file the paper work we will lose our home. The bank does not want to negotiate. The truth is I am too tired to care. Thanks to all of the filthy politicians for allowing prices to inflate groceries and gas. Shame to them all!
Sounds like it is your DFCS Office that is simply very poorly run. I live in Atlanta - I have no children and I am a single male and I was laid off. I went online for food stamps (Georgia EBT card). I got the card in the mail 4 days later!
I understand your pain. My son is 18 years old and he goes to school but has no other source of income. I told him to apply for food stamps only until he goes into the military in Sept of this year. He applied and they told him he has to at least work 20 hours to receive it. Ummmmm really what if he's going to school and just moved back in with his mom. I'm already receiving food stamps for myself and 2 girls and I'm self employed. I don't understand this state they are so backwards.
It is pretty bad. I got laid off and had to apply. I have 2 young kids. They told me I only qualify for $40 a month....
Sorry to hear about good people with bad luck stories above.. If you read the comments thread you will see that the author " admits" to not trying a new job or Career .. Reason was she was to old to try? Real reason is she did not have to since our stupid modern government bails out everyone via socialist programs like food stamps.. Guys .. If u need a helping hand due to Kay off etc.. That is for "you" to take responsibility on.. If needed ask family, friends and church for help.. Maybe even salvation army etc... The evil of liberal policies that destroy thecountry is based in entitlement programs like food stamps and welfare .. Most of those using the program abuse it.. Fact... Many eat better than people with $80,000 plus yearly incomes... Fact.. I have seen three local Texas examples of this fact first hand....
Eoo, I didn't have to try a new career at 60, and I would have been a fool to do so, since I never would have graduated from college before retirement age, and didn't have the money to do so anyway. Because I had better sense than to do that, I found a job in my own field, and have been working full time for well over a year now. As for your philosophy, I couldn't disagree with you more. The problem is conservatives who have no compassion for anybody who isn't successful that day. Many who draw foodstamps go on to find work and once again contribute to the system as I am doing today. It is ridiculous to say that people on food stamps eat better than the wealthy. Food stamps hardly feed you. If anyone earning 80,000 is not eating any better than someone on foodstamps, the person has an eating disorder and needs to see a shrink. But why am I wasting my time arguing with someone who obviously hates the poor anyway. Take your conservative talk elsewhere. No one here is listening to it, because we know its coming from someone who is out of touch with what it feels like to fall on hard times.
Indianapolis DFR seems to have gotten a lot better. I applied in January before the offices moved and they said that I did not turn in information that I had completed and denied me. I promptly went online and filled out a whole new application. I then received a letter informing of a phone interview I did the phone interview on Tuesday received benefit card on Saturday. I work full time, Go to school full time, care for my small child and his father who recently had his leg amputated due to medical malpractice. Not everyone on food stamps is lazy of unemployed some just fall on hard times. I can honestly say this is the first time I have ever tried to get food stamps and the minute we no longer need them we will be done.
Hi Valerie... I want to say that many many years ago I worked for a Food Stamp District office. It was the WORST job EVER. Not because of the clients, but because of so many LAZY employees that could care less about the needs of their clients. These caseworkers spent most of their PAID non working hours complaining about their salaries. Pleeeeease. Go find another job if your unhappy with your employment. I have NEVER seen so many workers with so many complaints, yet they had many hours of time to gossip with their co-workers, while clients waited & waited in the reception area. This is a nationwide problem. I now live in Indiana. I have NEVER seen such horrible laws or LAZY state workers. Of course, not all state workers are LAZY, but most are. And the serious problem is that the GOVERNOR doesn't see this statewide problem. Yesterday (after calling the Governors office to get through to anyone that would help a relative of mine that was given such a difficult time to get food stamps (an AUTISTIC relative); in their doing NOTHING to get this relative FOOD STAMPS (CLEARLY ELIGIBLE), This CLUCK of a caseworker (if that's what you can call her) REMOVED relative from his much needed MEDICAID. To date, Relative STILL has NO food stamps (going on for MONTHS) and months... The UNCARING INCOMPETENTS that receive a PAYCHECK from OUR TAX
DOLLARS should be investigated for FRAUD.. Please call your Senator and your Congress person; Food Stamps are federally controlled. The states screw them up, except if it's a state employees relative that needs them. hmmmmmmm. DON'T VOTE FOR ANY IMCUMBENT.. THE ONLY WAY THE USA MAY IMPROVE THE CALIBER OF WORKERS.
get rid of Obama!!!
Here's what I don't understand: I work very hard, and pay my taxes, and do not own a home. However, my taxes pay for someone to get a free phone, energy assistance, and food stamps, even though they have $$ in the bank and equity in their home? How is that even fair? They could sell their home and use the $$ to RENT a smaller or not as nice home or apt, and still have money to eat, buy fuel, and pay for a phone, just like many other people do. This drives me nuts.
Perhaps, you would have had more success had your caseworker been a minority employee. Or, another possibility, - perhaps, you were stereotyped as to much of one color. Yet, another possibility - perhaps, you had some assets or some life insurance policy which was the deciding criterion to kill your chances.
Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel
www.thechristianmessage.org
www.moralmatters.org
Thank you for your comments. I don't agree that state employees are lazy, as I've seen them work harder for less, and with more criticism than those within the private sector. I also don't believe Obama is the problem. I see the republican mindset and state governement in Georgia as being at fault.
Still, thanks for your comments and lets just agree to disagree on these issues. As I wrote earlier, this post was written many months ago, and I have been working full tme for well over a year, now. Foodstamps are no longer a personal issue for me, but workers rights are, along with large corporations being able to donate money to political compaigns and obrain more power even than they already have, which is way too much. Republicans like to talk about lazy state employees and lazy or incompetent federal employees, yet it was the high level CEOs in the private sector who were bailed out using MY tax dollars to the tune of much more money than foodstamps have ever cost us. There is so much hatred and blame geared in the direction of the poor. Kinda reminds me of Hitler's Germany. I really hope we don't start putting the poor in concentration camps....... and imposing gas chambers on them. The little bit of federal or state money that goes to the poor is nothing compared to what was used to bail out the rich, and nothing compared to the dollars we lose to high level corporations and individuals who don't pay over 15% in taxes on capital gains and never have to punch a time clock. Why aren't we calling those freeloaders lazy? Most inherited their large amounts of money and never had to work on a job a day of their lives. Please spare me the attacks on the poor. They are only scapegoats, just as the Jews were for Hitler.
Valerie,
While I can agree with much of what you say, especially about the hurting poor, I am having a difficult time understanding why [and that] you would apparently, turn my comment into a personal and partisan attack.
My comment was directed at stating some possibilities, as human nature is, not perfect. I, too realize that there are many public employees who work hard. I also, have much respect for the financially, poor as I think that they are often used as the subjects of some unnecessary budgetary cuts by politicians who use the poor as scapegoats when they (those same politicians) are under attack for their needless and frivolous spending of taxpayer dollars. Please take a look at one of my topical online messages, as that will give you an indication of what I think about the poor:
"What Does the Bible Say About the Poor?"
http://www.thechristianmessage.org/2012/02/what-do
Valerie - Please, next time, if you ever (again) respond to an online comment of mine, please be more careful not to stereotype me, generalize and / or, take offense. I assure you that with my comment, no offense was intended upon my part.
I DYID MY FOOD STAMPS REDERMATION PACKET THREE TIMES AND ITS STLL NOT IN THERE SYSTEM
And who was it that doled out those bailouts to the rich? Democrat President Obama and the Democrats who were in charge of both the House AND the Senate. Judging from your hateful comments towards Republicans, it may surprise you to learn that the majority of millionaires in the congress are Democrats. So when you condemn the rich you are condemning your own political Party.
Jesus said the poor will always be with you. And He was right, they're still here. Which in this country is surprising seeing how trillions of dollars have been transferred from the working class to the non-working class in the form of welfare. This can only mean that being poor in America is a lifestyle "choice", which many choose because it pays well.
I'm in Montgomery Alabama and the "poor" that I see are fat, have gold teeth, tattoos, cell phones better than my tracfone phone, $100+ tennis shoes, while I wear Walmart brand, have their nails and hair done in salons while I clip and cut my own. I see with my eyes a poor people that's actually living better than I am, meanwhile Democrats are telling me I'm selfish and uncaring because I'd like to keep just a little for myself and my family.
No, sorry. That "poor" drivel doesn't wash with me. I will not be made to feel guilty because someone chooses to be "poor". Public education is free in America. Anyone who desires an education can get one including a college education. But because it is free for so many it has no value to them so they do not take advantage of it. So many people are on welfare because they do not have an education and that's due to a choice that they made. Many single women chose to lay up with a stray dog that crossed their path and surprise!! They accidentally got pregnant. Being single with a child, and in many cases with no education, hurts their ability of getting a good paying job. Again, a choice they made. No worries though, because here comes the Democrats telling these people who made BAD CHOICES, if you vote for me I'll FORCE someone else to take care of you.
The only reason why anyone cannot find a job in America OTHER THAN because the Democrats are destroying private sector jobs with their endless socialist/Marxists mandates, is because they don't want a job.
The REAL "poor" people in America are those who play by the rules and make good decisions and vote against those who encourage bad behavior (Democrats and RINO Republicans), but have their money taken from them by force to pay for those who sell their vote for a government handout that is actually in most cases a career.
When was the last time you had a welfare recipient knock on your door and offer to cut your grass or clean your house or something in exchange for having received the kindness of your giving? I can answer that - NEVER! That's because they have been made to feel that they are "entitled" to other people's property (money). Where did they get such an idea? FROM THE DEMOCRAT PARTY.
There used to be a time in America when this was not the case. Those with little were helped by those with a little more. That was true giving. And those that received usually gave something in return - mending a broken fence, chopping firewood, painting a porch or something. There was joy in giving and appreciation shown in return. But the Democrats destroyed all that with their socialist ideology. Now, those that receive only have contempt for those that had their property taken by force and given to those who today simply make bad lifestyle choices.
Voting Democrat destroys people's lives. It is the most contemptuous thing one can do. That and voting for RINO Republicans.
Well my city is only 10% blacks and 12% hispanics. I am white and went to apply for benefits after losing a job. I was the only white applicant there out of about 50-60 people waiting to be seen. Many of them brought there 3,4, or 5 children along and I honestly thought they should talk to applicants about contraception! I was denied medical assistance because I don't have any children (how messed up is that?) So, I have a lump on my breast that can't be checked out because I don't have insurance and don't have the pay-in-full amount the doctor's office requires before being seen. GEEZ this country sucks.
its suprising how many people have the same issues.i reside in michigan and its disgusting how the state treats people!we have a five year limit here and someone in lansing decided to say ive never recieved state help so it might be good to take it away.we have families and older people going homeless every single day. we have many murders due to stealing because some people are forced to feed thier families trust me im not saying its right but i know if my babies are crying i would have to figure something out.this world is getting outragous completly.
i have been very fortunate so far , but anything can happen. up until now i've always felt embaressed of the thought of food stamps,but i must say you couldn't have put it in words any better. you go girl!
I have had nothing but rude case workers in louisiana i was laid off from my job last july due to being out at hospital on different occasions my husband is still working full time we worked at same place teleperformance technical support we have 2 year old son i applied last october after we just couldn't make it i couldn't find a job because couldn't afford child care anymore i was denied food stamps because my last work place denied me termination papers i went up there several times and called several times to try and get proof of job lost then after fighting got nothing my case worker was suppose to send me a form stating i couldn't get it but never did and was so hateful to me i sent in all other needed info i was denied so now march 1, 2012 i applied again it's now may 18th 2012 status still pending i'm very frustrated with system my husband still works full time and for past 2 months hours have been cut we're trying to live off of 800 dollars a month bill are months behind no groceries thankfully my mom has been helping with some meals as much as she can this economy is impossible have been applying night jobs so when my husband gets home i could work but never get called back it seems they pretty much want the poor to die out i try to keep my faith with god sometimes i question it though we pay our taxes but get denied any help am not lazy look for work constantly but it's hard to get a job when you have 2 year old with no where to go in day no family in town other than my full time working 63 year old mother who has major heart problems runs a realestate company doing manager position relocation and accounting only gets payed for one of the positions who struggles herself
valeriebelew Hub Author 2 years ago
To anyone presently reading this article, it is important to report that my foodstamp card finally did arrive, four and a half months after I initially applied. At ths point, I am working hard to make my need for these jewels become a thing of the past.