So what... wrote on May 16, 2007 10:37 PM:are there any numbers telling us how many households that are in-eligible for food stamps are able to collect them? Fraud is the biggest prblem in this system, not the inability to get stamps to those deserving.

Escondeeter wrote on May 16, 2007 11:03 PM:The 27 percent figure is a little low, but the same sort of nonparticipation issue is common to many public programs. There's a low level of participation, for example, in free or low cost children's health programs, despite years of effort to get people enrolled. As far as the quarterly requalification, there's a reason why it takes a Republican Governor to propose changing it, not the Democrat dominated legislature. That reason is that cutting the frequency of requalification also reduces the number of union member government employees needed to administer the program. The California Democratic party, as essentially a wholly owned subsidiary of the employee unions, can be counted on to oppose the plan.

Floyd wrote on May 17, 2007 1:28 AM:One of the big barriers to food stamps is the fact that they are not free; they must be purchased from the government (at a discount) by the eligible person. If you don't have enough money to buy a month's worth of stamps, you don't get anything. That one policy; selling food stamps to those who are eligible instead of giving them the free portion of the package; contributes significantly to the lack of participation.

What's Wrong? wrote on May 17, 2007 6:22 AM:The applicants just need to tell their supervisor that they need time off to go apply for food stamps because the job doesn't pay good wages! What's so awkward about that, Ms. Ross?

Amanda wrote on May 17, 2007 6:54 AM:Edward you forgot to mention that senior citizens with limited incomes also qualify for food stamps. Unfortunately not enough information is handed out as to where and when to apply. To make matters worst those most desperate cannot drive or have trouble filling out forms etc.

I agree w so what. wrote on May 17, 2007 7:12 AM:I agree with So what. A few weeks ago a family was in front of us in line at Stater Bros. using food stamps and wic coupons. Which I have no issue with if they have a true need, considering the cost of living in this area. To my dismay when we got out to the parking lot this family was getting into a Yukon Denali that still had dealer plates on it. If memory servers me this is a is a $40k+ vehicle. If they could afford this type of vehicle they should not have a need for food stamps and wic. Not to start a racial issue here, but I would bet the true income of this family is not documented so they can defraud the system that way.

Keep it at three months wrote on May 17, 2007 7:26 AM:and get fingerprints. We all know who doesn't apply. Those who are in the country ILLEGALLY!!!

Ron wrote on May 17, 2007 7:51 AM:You hear the commercials on the radio advertising for new consumers. No fingerprint, no food stamps, far as I'm concerned. And throw in a drug/alcohol test for good measure. Hey, if you want me to help you, then don't I have the right to set the conditions? Or should it just be your birthday everyday?

With So What wrote on May 17, 2007 9:09 AM:You're right.....we need numbers as to how many that are ineligible are collecting benefits. I notice that the story states that only 27% of eligible CALIFORNIANS are collecting benefits....Does that mean CITIZENS or merely someone who lives in the state?

dennis wrote on May 17, 2007 9:58 AM:Keep stringent requirements on this program or fraud will prevail....and are they counting illegals in the count of those who don't earn enough and qualify? My bet these do gooders are including all the illegals in their count and would have us provide that benefit to them. No way...although you can rest assured that there a re plenty of them on the roles and doles already.

To Floyd… wrote on May 17, 2007 10:16 AM:Where did you get your information that a family must purchase their food stamps from the government…? That is the most ridiculous thing I’ve heard, the issuance of food stamps is determined by your family size, your income and they do take in consideration your property and assets as well. Just as with any other government program there are people that do hide their assets in order to become eligible to receive their food stamps but is a very small percentage. I worked for the department of social services for many years and I feel comfortable in saying that the majority of the food stamp recipients do report their information accordingly. If the case worker feels or suspects that fraud is being committed an investigator is sent to the home to verify the information on the application. As mentioned before this is not fool proof, there will be some applicants that are witty enough to beat the system, but the numbers are quite low.

Mary wrote on May 17, 2007 10:23 AM: You're actually saying that illegal aliens applying for benefits they are not eligible for are being "scared off". Good. I think we should concentrate on getting benefits to our legal citizens in need, like the elderly and veterans.

Changes are needed wrote on May 17, 2007 10:49 AM: Under the current federal laws illegals cannot obtain any food stamps, which are part of the welfare system that includes AFDC (Aid For Dependant Children), and Medical. They do receive emergency medical which will cover the expenses accrued during the birth of a child. What we as US Citizens need to do is write to our elected officials and pressure them into changing the current citizenship laws, although this will be a tough issue since the current citizenship laws are covered under the constitution and if you have done your homework correctly you will notice that not too many amendments have been done to the original documents in the entire history. I feel that there should be an amendment done that would indicate that a child of illegal parent cannot obtain citizenship unless the parents can provide documentation that they are self supporting and have not received any financial aid for a period of ten years.

PW wrote on May 17, 2007 11:06 AM:I had the unfortunate need to be on Government assistance for a short period of time when I was younger. I filled out my paperwork properly, claimed all of my income as it adjusted and abided by the rules. I was also unfortunate to be surounded by people in the same situation. Every other person I knew lied in every possible way to get the maximum amount from the government. These were people who considered it a paycheck that they deserved and intended on relying on it as long as they could. I have also known people who qualified by refused to apply because of pride and managed to get by without the assistance. If the government truly wants to help, provide decent daycare that is affordable. It is difficult to get a job when you are paying $150 a week in daycare and only making $200 a week at work, but collecting $350 a week from the government and not having to pay for daycare. Doesn't give people much incentive to get off the program.

Social Workers wrote on May 17, 2007 12:18 PM:I don't know if illegals get food stamps. But there are corrupt social workers who cheat the system and rip off tax payers. I know a person who was a social worker. I asked him, how many people do you think really need these social programs? His answer, he said five percent were probably legitimate cases, and five percent is being generous, the rest of the cases were people who didn't want to work but to live off the govt. and I'm not talking illegals, come to think of it, I always see an illegal alien working. Anyway, it was Americans, of all colors who didn't want to work. Yeah, yeah, I know. Illegals caused this too. They also caused global warming too.

Feeling the shame? wrote on May 17, 2007 12:46 PM:Ross notes that people feel awkward when they have to tell their supervisor that they need the time off to get fingerprinted for their food stamps. It is the employer who should feel shame! How can we allow employers to pay people such a low wage that hardworking people have incomes so low that they can't even afford to eat. Why do we think of the people in a degrading way, it is the employers who do not pay a living wage while they drive their fancy cars and take monthly vacations, who are should be ashamed. We should stop subsidizing the employers and force them to pay a living wage.

I am Arthur, King of the Britons.... wrote on May 17, 2007 1:05 PM:The problem is not that too few people participate, but that we have the program at all. The food stamp program should be abolished. I don't see why my taxes should be used so that other people can get free food. Why should I have to subsidize the generally immoral lifestyle and poor life-choices of others? The money that food-stamp recipients save on food will be used, instead, to buy beer, cigarrettes, and often, illegal street drugs. All one needs to do to escape poverty is (1) graduate from high school, (2) stay married, and (3) delay having kids. It ain't rocket science. Food stamps, just like welfare payments, rot the soul of the recipient, promote dependency, and undermine families and the institution of marriage.

Re-Do This System wrote on May 17, 2007 1:30 PM:It should be available to hard working citizens who put in form their hard working money. I was born here and my 2 boys are also and when I was going thru a divorce and needed help, they state with my gross income I do not qualify but yet some people dont even work because of thei legal statues but their children do and let me tell you I work in a community clinic the own some nice cars. Our system need to be re-thinked and help our first when we are in need.

Floyd wrote on May 17, 2007 2:07 PM:The Food Stamp Act of 1964 requires that participants pay for their food stamps. As a matter of fact, I applied for food stamps right after the dot-com collapse of 2000-2001 and qualified for food stamps provided I could pay for them. Since I didn't have enough money after paying rent, I wasn't able to make the purchase to receive any food stamps. To answer your question, then, the source of my information is "first hand experience". More details if you search the Internet for "wikipedia food stamp program". How can you work for the Department of Social Services and not know about this?

To Floyd wrote on May 17, 2007 2:38 PM:I really don’t know where you obtained your information indicating that you must pay for your food stamps and I feel sorry that you were denied on that basis, but I will respect your opinion…. In the mean time I would like to invite you to visit the Food Stamp Act of 1977 by visiting their website that details the rules and regulations which are identical as the manuals used by the County of San Diego DSS (Department of Social Services) to determine eligibility http://agriculture.senate.gov/Legislation/Compilations/FNS/FSA77.pdf Scroll down page nine and you will view all of the information that is in questioned. Nothing bothers me most than people who speak without researching any information. You may find copies of the same manual at your local library as well.

To Floyd wrote on May 17, 2007 2:46 PM:Yes I did visit the website that you suggested, and if you were to read the entire document you will notice that at the beginning of the Food Stamp program the family that was applying for those benefits was to pay for the stamps themselves, but that program was cancelled in 1964. As a matter of fact there has been many revision since then and the one that is currently in use is the enactment of 1977 as indicated in my previous comment. Please read before you post any facts

To Floyd wrote on May 17, 2007 3:00 PM:The food stamps are to provide you a way to supplement your food bill, not to pay for you rent or any other expenses. There could be two different families of two each with a rent bill that differs by 700 dollars @ month with the same income and both families will receive the identical amount of assistance. As a matter of fact San Diego County has not issued the traditional foods stamps since the late 80's. San Diego was one of the only counties in the nation that was under a pilot program issuing cash benefits. The main reason for this program was due to the intimidation that some families would receive by people in line while purchasing their food. San Diego found out that not all people were using the money as intended by the government; therefore San Diego went to the EBT system. With this new system the family receives a card that resembles a credit card and they swipe it through the cash register allowing the federal movement to monitor their food purchases (not allowing for any alcohol, tobacco, or paper products) all the monies must be consumed by food product. Don’t be confused that the food stamps and the WIC program are the same, even though they are funded by the Department of Agriculture they have two different identities and eligibility criteria.

Compassion wrote on May 17, 2007 3:14 PM:Most people eligible for food stamps are the working poor. These are not free loaders, just hardworking parents trying to put food on the table for their families.

Pride wrote on May 17, 2007 3:15 PM:May be the reason some do not apply for food stamps. Some people actually believe in themselves and not the Government for their own well being.

Roy wrote on May 17, 2007 3:26 PM:Actually this is a good thing. It could mean that half of all Californians that are eligible would rather make it on their own without mooching off the rest of us for public assistance. I applaud those people for their hard work and independent self reliance. Maybe the people that are most worried are those government case workers who have to justify their existence by making as many people dependent on the government as possible.

Ralphie wrote on May 17, 2007 3:39 PM:Just keep it for CALIFORNIANS, and NOT for anyone here illegally!

Concerned-1 wrote on May 17, 2007 3:57 PM:What's a matter NCT? Didn't like my bird feeder comment? Well, the point is if you put out feed for the birds, they will come to depend on the food and neglect their natural instincts. They may even become hostile when the food is not there. The point is, welfare is a farce that harms more than it helps. And that's not to mention the corruption inherent in the system.

Shirley wrote on May 17, 2007 4:14 PM:The few times I've noticed food stamps being used for purchases in the grocery line ahead of me made me wonder about the people using them. Each time the food stamp items were paid separately from their other purchases. In every instance I've seen junk food - chips, cookies, soda, etc being purchased. If people can afford to buy these items, then they should't get food stamps. Plus, I hate to say it but their kids were fat. Between free breakfast and lunch at school, in addition to breakfast, snacks and dinner at home, these kids are eating too much and the wrong foods. Where were the fruits and vegetables? Not in their pile of purchases.

To Floyd wrote on May 17, 2007 4:18 PM:In my experiences with Food Stamps (yes, I was on them for about 6 months), what happens is technically what you are saying. The person is allotted a certain amount of cash and a portion of that is subtracted in exchange for a larger amount of Food Stamps. Essentially the person is paying for the Food Stamps, but not with cash out of their own pocket but with money being given to them.

Observer wrote on May 17, 2007 5:31 PM:My sister is disabled. Had a major stroke that just about killed her. She can no longer work and collects Disability through SS. She gets just a little under $900.00 an month from SS. The state of California calculates her need for food stamps at $10.00 per month... Will someone explain how you can live in California, on that amount of aid??? She has lived and worked in this state her enter life. Paid taxes just like you and me, until her stroke....

I have to agree wrote on May 17, 2007 6:14 PM:with Shirley. when we have to go to a certain store, there is always food stamps being used. Now I don't know their situation, but I would like to think that that they would not be using these food stamps as a crutch, because it NEVER fails that the kids are overweight, and there is nothing but junk food (not to mention liquor) to be purchased after their stamp food items have passed.

Roy wrote on May 17, 2007 8:11 PM:At one time of my life I remember the press would consistently run articles and TV news stories on all different kinds of government waste issues and welfare and entitlement waste. This was over twenty years ago. Today there is some space used here and there but the scope and breadth of the reporting has diminished to the point of being a joke. The waste is still there if not more so than ever before but I guess there must be a tolerance for it otherwise the public would be demanding more reporting of the abuses as they did 20 plus years ago.

Just a note wrote on May 18, 2007 1:04 PM:It has long been known in the Nutritional community that low income often is related to obesity. The high starch, high fat foods are cheaper, rice and beans, pasta and sauce.....Not to mention, the lack of good protien results in a quicker hunger. That is why many local communities focus on nutritional education for the low incomed. Not that I am defending poor purchasing choices, but a little understanding may go a long way.

Mary wrote on May 18, 2007 10:28 PM: Well, the money has to be found SOMEWHERE to pay for all the "free" social services for the illegals, doesn't it? Who cares of native-born people suffer because of it -- it's the illegals who REALLY count with our "representatives".

Willis wrote on May 20, 2007 7:03 AM:How do you know that the person who owns the Yukon was the person recieving the food stamps? maybe they just got a ride form a friend or family member. And why would you say you don't want a racial issue when you mention no race just a car. sounds to me you have a problem yourself. My mother in law needs food stamps and qualifies for them.but is too proud to get them.We make enough to help her out each month. Maybe more families that can help should help others instead of saying my money is mine go get food stamps since you qualify. Americans have changed from being self sufficient to one where they should just get things because its available. Keep the rquirements for finger prints and 3 months in place. If people really need the help they will find away to get these things completed and if they don't then maybe they don't need the help.This is suppossed to be temporary help and it has become a permenent means for some people that won't work which hurts the people that should have access to the program.

Suffered behind a food stamp person at the grocery store....... wrote on May 20, 2007 11:34 AM:I forgot people even used those things, but got quite an education when I ran into Stater Bros once in Escondido. I NEVER see food stamp or free food coupon people in Von's and Ralph's. Ever. I have 4 teenagers and am at the grocery all the time. I stood behind a Mexican woman who was loading up the counter with food while her husband / baby daddy watched the kid in the cart out in the aisle. The process took forever. The clerk had to look at each free food coupon, scan the item, write something on the coupon, and finally bag it all up. I was going insane, but had plenty of time to watch the man with the kid. He wouldn't look at anybody waiting in the long line his family was causing, just kept his head down. That spoke volumes to me about his failure to provide for his family and allowed instead the taxpayers to provide for him. Although anything is possible, he looked young and able bodied to me. I was embarrassed for him and disgusted. I should have known better by the condition of the cruddy stip mall that Stater Bros is in, but just needed one thing and thought it couldn't be that bad. I was wrong. It's just too hard to go into a store where people can't pay for their own food and lives. I couldn't help noting that not a lot of white people were in there, either. Since I never shop at Stater Bros, does this particular store cater to a certain race or just the bad area it is in attract food stamp people, as I said, I never see those coupons being used in other grocery stores.

TO SUFFERED BEHIND A FOOD STAMP PERSON wrote on May 20, 2007 3:45 PM:Those coupons you saw were WIC coupons, not food stamps. WIC is a progam for low income families with children up to the age of 5. Food stamps are now issued through a card similar to a debit card. I dont think that the stater bros. you went to cater to a certain race, i believe it was just the neighborhood in which the store was built. It could very well have been a "vons or ralphs" that was placed in that shopping center, but no it was a stater bros. I really wish that people would leave their stereo-typical opinions to themselves. I am a white woman with 3 kids, my husband left me in a bad situation. Once upon a time i had to apply for welfare and food stamps. My point is sometimes people are left in certain situations where they have to apply for these programs. It's not because they want to, but because it's what they have to do to get back on thier feet. True, there are some people out there that will milk the system until they can no longer do so. But, that is when the government has to step up and find a way to imrpove their "system". I find the system has many flaws, but because i am but an american who was put in a bad situation, struggled to get back on her feet so she didnt have to rely on the government any longer, and pays taxes, who am i really to say what needs to be improved. Only because I am no longer eligible for any programs, and i make less than 25,000 a year and have 3 kids to support. It is only by the grace of god that I am able to keep a roof over mi kids head, and food in their belly's. I just really wish people would stop passing judgement on people until they know that individuals situation. I'm sorry that Hispanic womans WIC coupons were such an inconvenience for you. When I was eligible for WIC, i did use them at Vons, so yes they are used at other stores. Maybe they prefer to go to a store where judgment wont be passed upon them.

Don wrote on May 23, 2007 12:54 PM:Food stamps and fancy cars: One time I gave a ride to a nearly destitute neighbor to apply or renew for her food stamps. It was a 10 minute drive, but would have taken over an hour each way by bus changes. I was driving a big beautiful extra large cadillac. A lot of people in their junk cars in the parking lot were glaring at us. I remember it well although it was over 25 years ago.

Don2 wrote on May 23, 2007 1:16 PM:Comment on persons complaining about persons using food stamp or WIC coupons: Food stamp shoppers using the county cards do not stand out and you would not know it if they buy what is allowed on the program. They swipe the card just like the rest of us swipe a credit card. But maybe the person with coupons was also using ordinary coupons such as are printed in the ads or come in the mail. I was at a Ralphs store recently making a minor purchase. I was behind a minority woman that must have had 75 to 100 coupons which the checker had to relate to each of 75 to 100 items in her basket and write something on each coupon. I decided to wait. Other persons got in my line, then left and went to other lines which were open. She was totally beaming and very proud that she had saved $150 by her careful use of coupons. I usually buy my groceries at a club store where I save 30% to 40% on everything without coupons.