I understand that many food stamp recipients are anxious, even angry, that the government shutdown could mean no food stamps in November. Perhaps longer if the government doesn't reopen. And they're also angry about the new work requirements. I also understand that there are many who feel food stamp recipients abuse the program and don't deserve the benefit. Years ago when food stamps looked like play money, I was a divorced mom of 3 and got food stamps. And I was ashamed. I was finishing the last 2 years of college and considering dropping out to get a full time job. My social worker advised me to get my degree. He said food stamps were for people like me who just needed a helping hand for a bit. He said once I graduated and got a job with my degree, my taxes would quickly pay back what I got in food stamps and help fund the program plus so much more. Much more than any job I could get without the degree I listened to him, graduated, and in a few years was making in the mid $80,000 range. I am grateful that food stamps were there when I needed them for those 2 years. But I wasn't having more children or lounging around. Food stamps should be time limited for able bodied persons. And if you can't find a job you should be assigned volunteer work.