This is in response to an article in the Sun Journal Dec. 16 about how people on welfare were purchasing lottery tickets and the money amounts some were winning.
From comments online, I am concerned that people reading that article are being misled. They think welfare recipients are spending millions of public assistance money on the lottery.
The state has no proof that any public assistance money is being used for lottery purchases. DHHS knows only if the winners were receiving assistance.
Recipients cannot use their EBT card, even loaded with cash, to make lottery purchases. They would have to take it out at an ATM or get cash back on a purchase to have the cash to use.
Only select people get cash loaded on their cards — women getting TANF, people on disability, SSI — it’s a very short list.
Besides, people on food stamps can still have some money coming in. Food stamps don’t pay utilities or buy necessities.
Why all the backlash against people on welfare? There are no jobs in a lot of areas. To get one beyond a certain range you need a vehicle and, making minimum wage, you still end up on food stamps because you can’t afford to feed yourself. When your car dies, you’re out of a job again. I know this — I’ve lived it.
I know there are people who abuse the welfare system; I’ve seen it. But remember, there are people who need assistance and what is going on hurts everyone.
James Hemond, North Anson
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