Why do people automatically think we are scum scamming the government, because we are poor?

Question

I'm recently a single mom with three kids going to school and I am amazed at how many people think I must be scamming the government, or be lazy because I get food stamps. I work very hard at going to school so my kids will some day have a good life. Why is that wrong?

Answer 1

Excellent question. Those people who think that way are overly-protective of their money and it's a defense mechanism that kicks in whenever they believe they may have to part with any money to help anyone. They treat all of our money - government money the same way, as if it were their own personally. it's so much easier for them to put us in that catagory, then to deal with the reality of poverty in "the world's wealthiest country." I hope all works out well for you and your kids this season and good luck to you.

Answer 2

You are doing a good thing then. I got food stamps for a while. I lost a really good job that I had and was stuck waiting tables at $2 an hour. The food stamps were a life saver. I was working and off assistance in no time.

I think people get mad because they are many that abuse the system. PA gives a $150 clothing alotment for jobs that require uniforms. the nursing home where i worked would make people work NINETY DAYS before they gave the letter of need to get the $150 because so many people got the letter, then quit.
I have seen people buy doritos and pepsi with food stamps, heard people say "why would I work, then I would have to pay for things". i knew a couple that had 4 kids (not married)......ALL 6 had free medicaid health insurance, food stamps, cash assistance, energy assistance, gas assistance and HUD (helped with rent) while I was busting my butt to get through college and get a degree.

You are not wrong...........there are MANY people out there that are wrong, but you are not one of them........

Answer 3

Because people are jerks and think that because some people do abuse the system that all of them do. You know you are supporting your kids the best you can right now. Especially with being a newly single mom of 3. That's gotta be hard. I give you many props for trying so hard. My son and I were on medicaid and WIC for while. His father left while I was pregnant. We just moved and are going to be getting on it again. But I am also pregnant to my boyfriend and am still with him and am going to need it for the baby too. So I know at least a little bit where you are coming from. Don't worry about what other people think. It's none of their business anyways. You know your taking care of your kids and that's what really matters. Good luck with everything. It will all get better. Just ignore people. If they look at you like they think your scum or say anything to you. Just smile at them. I know you don't want to, but do it, lol. It'll just make them frustrated knowing that their opinion doesn't affect you. :-)

Good luck hun. I hope it all works out for you, I really do.

Answer 4

Yes we should get rid of all the hatred in the world I think that there should be a law that stops people from hating and judging others. I know what's it like on the rough end of things I started off homless with two dissabilities and I worked my way up to the top I am my own boss now but will never forget what my mum did for us kids when she was on Centerlink I personally believe that motherhood is the most important job in the world and for people who make up stuff about people who poor is rude and inconsiderate as well as many other things. They don't know what it's like being poor and I doubt that they could get themselves outter that mess without there parents or credit cards people just need to learn to keep there mouths shut. If I can work my way up from nothing homeless on the streets anyone can so it's not the end of you.

Answer 5

Dosent sound like you are.

What got me made, is I worked at a bulk grocery store in college. Making a little more than minimum wage, and just getting by. But I would see these people come in, a boyfriend and girlfriend, with a kid or two, and use their foodstamps to buy lobster, shrimp, steaks, fillet mingon, etc..... They would be driving brand new cars and wearing top named clothes and everything. And they wouldnt be afraid to tell you that they get food stamps cause technically she is a single mom (with a job) but that way the gov't dosent factor in his pay. So im workng and paying money to the govt so they can eat lobster.

Answer 6

i think its great that you are trying for a better life for
you and your children. i dont know what circum-
stances left you having to get food stamps. some
people beleive there are many women who have
children without thinking of the consequences of
being a single parent. also that many young women
do not use birth control or even a condom which
is a frightening thought. im not saying you fall into
this group but some people believe that no matter
how hard you try to change their minds.
keep your head up and be proud of all of your
accomplishments including being the type of mom
that cares about your and your childrens future.

Answer 7

Ive never been in the position to where Ive had to use federal or state assistance but i am glad that these safety nets are in place for people like you. Its what the original intent of the programs where for to help honest hard working people just like you get through a rough stretch. Is the "rotten" apples that are allowed by politicians to use and abuse the "system" who give these programs a "rotten" name with the public. Dont worry I'm glad my hard earned tax dollars can be put to 'good" use helping you and your family get back on your feet!! GOOD LUCK!!

Answer 8

That's what the system is for... we are using it ourselves. We have three children but my husband's job of 13 years was downsized after a new company took over. Despite his college degree we are living on a smaller income. We have financial plan and will be out of debt within 18 months using the Dave Ramsey snowball method.

I don't feel bad using the system for a couple of years when my husband has paid into it for over 20 years and I paid into it for several years myself.

OTOH, I have and do know people who use the system with no plan or intention of getting off assistance... that's milking the system.

Good luck with your schooling and plans for the future.

Answer 9

I have been there. Don't let yourself feel bad when you use your food stamps. The kids have to eat. People are basically ignorant when they think you are getting something for "free". They don't know what it is all about.

Am glad you are going to school. It will make a better future for you and the kids. Good luck to you. My kids are grown with good jobs and degrees. My only regret is that I didn't better MYSELF along the way. ie. getting a degree.

Answer 10

I understand where you are coming from. I go to school as well... and I get medical assistance and financial aid for college. I have always worked, but Friday is my last day. I think it is more important to receive a little bit of help for a short period of time while I make a better life for me and my children, rather than feel guilty and stay in the same situation... living paycheck to paycheck.

Answer 11

Because sadly there are people who do take advantage of the system. And it's human nature to only see the negative side of the picture, as a result hard working honest people like yourself get pulled into the whole stereotype. Ignore those people, continue to work hard for your kids. You're doing the right thing and your kids will thank you one day.