Once, someone remarked that I “didn’t appear to be someone” who required SNAP benefits for grocery expenses. Naturally, I was taken aback. What exactly should I look like to convey financial need? Regardless of my appearance or how others perceive it, I rely on those benefits to provide for my family.
There’s a prevalent myth suggesting that those who receive government assistance must fit a certain stereotype. But what does “fitting the stereotype” really mean? Should individuals show up at the grocery store in worn-out clothing? Are we expected to wear a constant expression of despair to validate our need for assistance?
To qualify for government programs like SNAP, individuals must meet specific criteria. This implies that many recipients are just like anyone else—gasp—living everyday lives. We wear typical clothing, drive average vehicles, and use our regular smartphones (in my case, an Android).
Having a stylish hairstyle or a nice handbag doesn’t indicate financial stability. Driving a newer vehicle doesn’t necessarily mean you’re rolling in cash. In today’s world, smartphones are essential.
When people observe someone using SNAP benefits while holding a smartphone, it often invites judgment. Many make assumptions about how someone could afford such a device or why they need help. The truth is, you can’t always know the story behind that phone. Perhaps it was purchased refurbished from Amazon or eBay, or maybe it’s being paid off in installments. It could even be a gift or provided by an employer. Regardless of how someone acquired it, owning a smartphone doesn’t lessen their need for assistance, particularly when being connected is crucial for job opportunities.
As a full-time working single parent, having a phone with internet access is vital. My boss may need to reach me urgently while I’m picking my child up from school. On days without school, I often work from a picnic table while my son enjoys the playground. I also attend meetings or work events while he’s at school, making it essential to stay reachable.
It’s important to remember that SNAP, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is meant to supplement, not cover, all food expenses. Most families using SNAP don’t earn enough to afford a full month’s groceries. Benefits are calculated based on household income, so it’s a misconception that people are “abusing the system.” In reality, the Agriculture Department reports a low fraud rate—only about 1% of benefits are illegally sold for cash. Moreover, Moody’s Analytics estimates that every dollar spent on food stamps generates about $1.70 in economic activity, surpassing the benefits from tax cuts.
As a single mother supporting myself and my child, I live within my means in a small apartment. However, groceries can be expensive, especially with a growing child who devours fresh fruit. When we first became independent, SNAP was instrumental in easing my financial burden, allowing me to focus on providing nutritious meals for my son.
I’ve definitely felt the stigma surrounding SNAP. The card is hard to miss, and it can be uncomfortable to pull it out in a busy store, especially with people behind me and the cashier observing closely. Despite my modest clothing, I prefer to look put together. I can only imagine the judgment I face when swiping my SNAP card, leaving others to wonder why I even need assistance.
Outward appearances are not reliable indicators of financial status, except perhaps for celebrities. Most people wear the same well-worn jeans from years ago, and it’s common to purchase clothing on sale. I can’t recall the last time I bought anything at full price—it’s simply not in my budget. But that’s my personal choice, and it’s no one else’s concern.
People who judge those receiving SNAP benefits often forget that many families are living paycheck to paycheck. Government assistance helps alleviate some of the financial pressure, especially during tough times. That seemingly nice car? It might be old and in need of repairs, forcing tough choices between rent and maintenance. A reliable vehicle is essential for getting to work and earning a living, which perpetuates the cycle.
So, if you see someone using their SNAP card while holding a designer wallet, pause before jumping to conclusions. It’s naïve to assume that they’re too affluent for food assistance. You can’t “look” impoverished, and not everyone who receives help is destitute. Many working families utilize SNAP to avoid falling into poverty. The criteria for needing assistance are subjective and influenced by biases and stereotypes. Material possessions like phones and cars are necessary—whether you want to acknowledge that or not—for parenting and job retention.
Let’s strive to release our judgments and focus on ourselves in the coming year. We’re all navigating our own challenges.
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In summary, it’s essential to recognize that appearances can be deceiving, and the need for assistance is not always visible. Many individuals and families rely on programs like SNAP to help them get by, regardless of their outward circumstances.