"Across the country, Americans who depend on government help to buy groceries are preparing for the worst. As a result of the ongoing federal government shutdown, Donald Trump has threatened to, for the first time in the program's more than 60-year history, cut off benefits provided by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program (Snap). A federal judge last week prevented the US Department of Agriculture from suspending Snap altogether, but the Trump administration now says enrollees will receive only half of their usual benefits."
"Many of those who responded to our callout were elderly, or out of the workforce because of significant mental of physical health issues, and worried that a cutoff of the benefit would send their lives into a tailspin. I am housebound because I need a couple of spinal cord surgeries so this is really gonna hurt me because I cannot work, and thereby earn money to put food on the table, said Taras Stratelak, a retiree in southern California."
"Donna Lynn, a disabled veteran in Missouri, said a cutoff of benefits would force her into making tough choices. It comes down to paying for my medications and my bills or buying food for myself and for my animals. So I pay for my medications and bills and get what food I can for my animals, Aad if I have money left over, then I will eat, Lynn said."
The federal government shutdown prompted threats to cut SNAP benefits, and the administration announced enrollees would receive only half of usual payments after a judge blocked a full suspension. Approximately 42 million people are enrolled in SNAP. Recipients include elderly people, retirees, and those out of the workforce due to significant mental or physical health issues. Many rely on SNAP to purchase fresh produce, milk, eggs, and other necessities. A cutoff or reduction in benefits would force people to choose between medications, bills, and food, worsening hardship for disabled veterans and hospitalized individuals.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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