15% of Americans now live below the poverty line (less than $22,315.00/yr for a family of 4). Median income hasn't risen for over a decade, the longest such stretch since the great depression. The main reason for the increases in the number of people in poverty is joblessness brought about by the real estate crash 3 years ago. While I am sure that there are people buying ding dongs with their food stamps, I have a hunch a lot more people are using them to feed their children. I am also pretty sure that most people are using housing assistance to avoid becoming homeless. I would love to eliminate any abuse in the system and to punish those that abuse the system. But in this week before Christmas, I just pray that these millions of people and their families have a warm place to stay and some food to eat.
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