A study has found that tens of millions of children are amongst the biggest recipients of SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or food stamps. The SNAP program has, for years, been a heated political topic accompanied by numerous stereotypes and opinions.
The United States Department of Agriculture annual report revealed that 45 percent of food stamp benefits went to children under 18, totaling about 20 million kids. Nine percent of recipients were age 60 or older, and nearly 10 percent were disabled adults who were under 60.
Experts have reported that many Americans turned to food stamps due to the great recession, and that not all recipients are unemployed — a common misconception. “While people may be working, they’re working in jobs (in which) wages are not keeping up with inflation,” said James Ziliak, director of the Center of Poverty Research at the University of Kentucky. Short-term jobs, drastic cuts in hours and benefits and rising costs of living have all contributed to the number of SNAP recipients.
Despite who receives food stamp benefits, the program still comes under fire. Some lawmakers argue food stamps have minimal benefit and discourage work, while adding to the government deficit. A portion of lawmakers believe some recipients don’t need the service and, if they do, they purchase unhealthy meals.
Experts admittedly report that there are some bad seeds, but researchers have found substantial benefits, especially for children who need fuel for growing brains and bodies.