News
November 12, 2025
CAL THOMAS: The hunger games
There are an estimated 42 million people receiving food aid from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps.
**CAL THOMAS: The hunger games**
A recent column by Cal Thomas highlights the significant number of Americans relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, to put food on the table. Thomas points out that an estimated 42 million people are currently receiving food aid through this vital government program. This figure underscores the persistent issue of food insecurity in the United States and raises important questions about the effectiveness of current welfare policies.
The SNAP program provides low-income individuals and families with electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, which can be used to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers. It serves as a crucial safety net for those struggling to afford basic necessities, including the unemployed, the elderly on fixed incomes, and families with children.
While SNAP aims to alleviate hunger and improve nutrition, its scope and impact are subjects of ongoing debate. Supporters argue that it is a necessary lifeline that prevents widespread hunger and malnutrition, contributing to the overall health and well-being of vulnerable populations. They emphasize that SNAP benefits stimulate local economies by increasing demand for food products.
Critics, however, raise concerns about potential dependency on government assistance and the program's overall cost to taxpayers. They argue that SNAP may disincentivize work and that stricter eligibility requirements and work requirements are needed to ensure responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
The fact that 42 million Americans depend on SNAP highlights the complex challenges surrounding poverty and food insecurity. Factors contributing to this reliance include stagnant wages, rising housing costs, and limited access to affordable healthcare. Addressing these underlying issues is crucial to reducing the need for food assistance in the long term.
Cal Thomas's column serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle faced by millions of Americans to secure enough food for themselves and their families. It prompts a broader conversation about the role of government in providing social safety nets, the effectiveness of current programs, and the need for comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of poverty and hunger. The debate surrounding SNAP and its beneficiaries is likely to continue as policymakers grapple with the complex challenges of balancing individual needs with responsible fiscal policy.
A recent column by Cal Thomas highlights the significant number of Americans relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, to put food on the table. Thomas points out that an estimated 42 million people are currently receiving food aid through this vital government program. This figure underscores the persistent issue of food insecurity in the United States and raises important questions about the effectiveness of current welfare policies.
The SNAP program provides low-income individuals and families with electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, which can be used to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers. It serves as a crucial safety net for those struggling to afford basic necessities, including the unemployed, the elderly on fixed incomes, and families with children.
While SNAP aims to alleviate hunger and improve nutrition, its scope and impact are subjects of ongoing debate. Supporters argue that it is a necessary lifeline that prevents widespread hunger and malnutrition, contributing to the overall health and well-being of vulnerable populations. They emphasize that SNAP benefits stimulate local economies by increasing demand for food products.
Critics, however, raise concerns about potential dependency on government assistance and the program's overall cost to taxpayers. They argue that SNAP may disincentivize work and that stricter eligibility requirements and work requirements are needed to ensure responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
The fact that 42 million Americans depend on SNAP highlights the complex challenges surrounding poverty and food insecurity. Factors contributing to this reliance include stagnant wages, rising housing costs, and limited access to affordable healthcare. Addressing these underlying issues is crucial to reducing the need for food assistance in the long term.
Cal Thomas's column serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle faced by millions of Americans to secure enough food for themselves and their families. It prompts a broader conversation about the role of government in providing social safety nets, the effectiveness of current programs, and the need for comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of poverty and hunger. The debate surrounding SNAP and its beneficiaries is likely to continue as policymakers grapple with the complex challenges of balancing individual needs with responsible fiscal policy.
Category:
Politics