To clear a few things up

cubmom2 · #1 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 10:16 AM

I was the woman who commented in the post about food stamps and military. I feel some of the replies to me were misguided so I'd like to take this opportunity to set the record straight.

Yes, right now we have 2 households..out of necessity. My dh took a job in another state, our plan was to sell our home here and we'd move and live as a family again in the state where he works. Unfortunately, the housing bubble crashed, and our house did not sell as fast.

My dh took a job out of the state because there are NO jobs here that pay well except for mining..he was RIFF'ed from that. This town is very clannish and good jobs ( over min. ) are only found if you are kin to someone. I am not. I have no kin here.

We are NOT over our heads in debt..I manage and HAVE managed very well..including when we were in the military. We have no credit card debt..even now , while my dh is out of work at this time , ( his job out of state also RIFFED, no more funding on his project he worked on )..I am to this day , still not living off credit cards...I drive a truck we bought 5 years ago..while still in the military.. I do not have flashy purses, clothing, exotic pets ....shop at discount places, etc.

All the posters who commented that we " must be over our heads and cannot manage our money ". You are wrong. I have a mortgage on my home, and one car payment..Both are reasonable. I buy groceries on payday, pay utilities, and really, spend my days on the lawn and garden or volunteering at my son's school.

Yes, I did ask if I should appy for free lunch at the beginning of the year, because we WERE and still ARE maintaining 2 homes and it was tough due to basic items like housing, elect. water bills, college tuition for my one son, etc. I did not plan to cheat the board of education...I did plan on letting them know our situation.

In the end, I did not apply, although my dh has been unemployed for about 2 months, I may change my mind and apply. It has not been easy, but I never once in my life have bounced a check, or had collectors call me.

For the record, my baby NEVER sat in dirty diapers. Yes, I did pull out hard dookies from his diaper that did NOT leave any stain or mess what so ever. I do not consider that a dirty diaper.

it was tough to live in Cuba as an E-5 with no COLA . We had a newborn and all that entails with expenses. I do not care if you lived in Hawaii , Iceland, Germany, whatever. we found it tough. We did not live off the wall..in fact, out of the 3 years we lived there, I remember only once eating out ( our anniversary )..and only shopping on paydays. We had one car, reasonable ( Hyundais are not known for luxury )..and no expensive hobbies, pets, or clothing purchases.

It makes me wonder how some posters feel the need to bash others and throw their life experiences around as if they are a model of decency. I suggest you ask and listen before you condemn.

cubmom2 · #2 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 10:34 AM

Few more thoughts..

My dh is retired military. He got out as an E-7. By that time, he was making decent money , I worked as well, and we had no problems. In fact, we had no problems really ever except for living in Cuba. I believe it was because of the isolation factor and lack of resources there.

My dh does get a retirement check , but that only pays our mortgage, taxes on the house and vehicles, and insurance. It is not a high amount check. We have always said, when he retires, we will use the money for our home , so if anything happens ( like it did with today's uncertain job world ). ..we'd still have a place to live.

Here in Appalachia, it is very expensive to live. Right now , in fact, my dh is interviewing in Washington, DC. Gas is $1.89 he says. Here in the coalfields, it is $2.15 & has been for sometime. Food is very expensive and taxed here, and we only have 2 stores to chose from. Car taxes are high, and it is not a cheap place to live, safe to say.

susiecat · #3 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 11:30 AM

I have to ask. Why do you feel the need to explain your life to people on here? They don't support you. Who cares what they think you do or don't do with your own money.

ILUVLUCY420 · #4 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 12:10 PM

Cubmom I totally agree with susiecat's post and realize each time I see her post she makes alot of sense.When it truly comes down to each day and the way we choose to live our lives, in the end, what is more important is "its our lives and we and only we have to live it no one else". I have become each day to try to wrap my thoughts and feelings around the true meaning of that quote. I always felt and still do life is all about choices and what is right for you and only you. So Cubmon thanks for your words and your post you spoke wonderful and also susiecat thanks for what your wrote. Peace to both of you. Catherine

cubmom2 · #5 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 12:52 PM

You 2 are right. I felt I had to defend my family against certain poster's and their biting comments. I made a statement the other day about MY family's way of living overseas. Several people who were in the military as well..suddenly knew everything about me and our past. I guess I did not realize I had gnomes living in my government quarters , who would take notes on my habits and be able to bring them up years later to use against me.

mom2twins2 · #6 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 03:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by susiecat

I have to ask. Why do you feel the need to explain your life to people on here? They don't support you. Who cares what they think you do or don't do with your own money.

That's exactly what I was coming on here to post! Don't worry what people say on here. You don't have to explain a thing to people on this board. It's YOUR life and YOUR money and YOUR family.

ILUVLUCY420 · #7 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 03:54 PM

mom2twins2 you said it perfectly thanks peace catherine.

groovygirl · #8 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 04:13 PM

Do you work?

cubmom2 · #9 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 05:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by groovygirl

Do you work?

yes, as a matter of fact I do.

groovygirl · #10 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 07:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cubmom2

yes, as a matter of fact I do.

Okay, I was just wondering if you were living off of one income, or two. I live off of just mine, and it is hard!

allinaugust · #11 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 08:33 PM

I think any time you post on a public message board, you are opening yourself up to whatever comments come your way. You won't always like those comments, as was displayed here.

You chose to get in the "conversation" by posting and telling people your experiences of military life and money. Others gave their two cents and commented on what you "said".

From someone who knows the workings of the military pretty well, and the pay scales, etc. I have no problem stating what I think of the situation based on the information you gave.

If someone is living rent and utility free, with a steady income, FREE medical, discounted groceries (can't forget those) and still claiming they have it so bad they are picking out poo from a baby's diaper.....um, yeah, something's wrong with that picture and I'm going to say so.

Rhetorical Question, but, Cubmom2, did you ever consider going to Navy Relief?? For those unaware of Navy Relief, it is a sort of military self help for those struggling. They give no interest loans for car repair, give you groceries, emergency funds if needed.....and if warranted. If you go, and they see you are spending frivilously, don't count on any money from them. They also offer budgeting courses. Really, the resources are so very plentiful, I just hate to hear people speak of how awful they had it.

MomofBoys · #12 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 08:44 PM

cubmom2, I sent you a PM.

deddlastt · #13 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 09:16 PM

a portion of cubmom's post above :

It makes me wonder how some posters feel the need to bash others and throw their life experiences around as if they are a model of decency. I suggest you ask and listen before you condemn

You are the person who posted the details that were being discussed and then go on the attack offensive. No one "bashed" you nor implied they were the "model of decency". There wasn't much to ask with what you said.

Again, you have become another poster who doesn't get the replies she wants and then cries foul after publishing here. You typed and put it out for all to see. It's all there. Miltary spouses are simply calling it as they read what you wrote.

I replied because I am a military spouse and have personal knowledge of what that life is like. I lived it. I never, ever knew anyone picking poo out of diapers, no matter how little they had to spend on the baby's care. NEVER.

And for once, I will stick my neck out that I do find it very hard to believe in 3 years you only ate out once. 3 years and all other meals were prepared at home? Go ahead, chop away, I doubt that.

You still don't have my sympathy for not being responsible enough to take proper care of yourself and your family when you had a steady income and benefits, Your dh either served the minimum 20 years for retirement or the early out they offered in the 90's at 15 years. In either case, you had a steady income in which you couldn't live. We did. So did many others.

Happy poo picking

dl

cubmom2 · #14 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 09:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by allinaugust

I think any time you post on a public message board, you are opening yourself up to whatever comments come your way. You won't always like those comments, as was displayed here.

You chose to get in the "conversation" by posting and telling people your experiences of military life and money. Others gave their two cents and commented on what you "said". No, I believe you were one of the people who ran with things and replied in a snotty manner.

From someone who knows the workings of the military pretty well, and the pay scales, etc. I have no problem stating what I think of the situation based on the information you gave.
I thank you to understand that my dh served 21 years in the military. I was married the entire time. Pay charts do not tell the entire store.. Some E-2's make more with hiring bonuses..some E-2's work in cushy offices while others are snipes in the boiler room. You have the gall to act like you are the be all end all of the military. Were you ever stationed in my commands ? How can you know what it is all about if you were not stationed there. Are you telling me the military of today is the same when my dh enlisted ? Mid-80's ? We did not even have email back then. So, please, do not act like you are the final authority on military life.

If someone is living rent and utility free, with a steady income, FREE medical, discounted groceries (can't forget those) and still claiming they have it so bad they are picking out poo from a baby's diaper.....um, yeah, something's wrong with that picture and I'm going to say so. If someone is living rent and utility free..ok, let's go there. The BAQ MY dh would of gotten if he did not live in housing would be added in his check..since we lived in housing..they DEDUCTED the BAQ from his check..same with utilities money..so, it was NOT " FREE" living...Nowadays they have BAH, but hey, guess what..this was BAQ allowance..dare you go there with talking how BAQ differs from BAH today ? I didn't think so..

Free medical ? Oh, by that do you mean a clinic..NAVCARE..where you could not make an appts..you sat in a chair in a crowded room for hours on end, waiting to be seen..a 6-7 hour wait was the norm..only to be given the bum's rush with a fussy sick baby. & let's talk the old CHAMPUS method of military care..let's talk "free"..everytime my child went to the ER, I paid $1,000 at LEAST...Free ? I think not..now they have TRICARE..but this was the Navy I was in..and medical care was not always free.

Discounted groceries ? In Cuba we had ONE grocery store, the commissary..food came by barge every 2 weeks from the states..many times our shelves would be bare..no chance to shop around,,and you could not go off base..Commissary shopping does save money, but when your shelves are limited because the barge of food did not come in, you don't have much choice.

Rhetorical Question, but, Cubmom2, did you ever consider going to Navy Relief?? For those unaware of Navy Relief, it is a sort of military self help for those struggling. They give no interest loans for car repair, give you groceries, emergency funds if needed.....and if warranted. If you go, and they see you are spending frivilously, don't count on any money from them. They also offer budgeting courses. Really, the resources are so very plentiful, I just hate to hear people speak of how awful they had it.

Navy relief, when we were in, was ONLY for EXTREME cases, as it should be. Unexpected funerals, car repairs, MAYBE A HIGH ER CHAMPUS BILL *smirk*...I indeed know about Navy relief..and I would not lower myself to ask for this when others truly needed it. We managed...and yes, I did pick out poo from my baby's diaper.

This could be an entire new thread..but PLEASE do not tell this retired Navy person how the real military is...I lived it for 20 years..

carolcarolc · #15 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 10:04 PM

OP did you say you just got a job? Congrats on the new job, good for you! I know it's hard to get employment in your area so that is great news -

marilynk · #16 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 10:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cubmom2

Navy relief, when we were in, was ONLY for EXTREME cases, as it should be. Unexpected funerals, car repairs, MAYBE A HIGH ER CHAMPUS BILL *smirk*...I indeed know about Navy relief..and I would not lower myself to ask for this when others truly needed it. We managed...and yes, I did pick out poo from my baby's diaper.

This could be an entire new thread..but PLEASE do not tell this retired Navy person how the real military is...I lived it for 20 years..

ok....the whole poo picking is just disgusting! Regardless of how "dry" and none "messy" the poo was, what you describe is extremely unsanitary! Did you reuse condoms and tampons as well??

Furthermore, you aren't the first nor will you be the last military spouse who has it tough or hard. In fact there are some on this board who are currently living it! It is no shame in scrimping and doing with out. However, your attitude about the whole thing just reeks!
Get over yourself already. If your life sucks so bad, then find a solution instead of complaining about what's wrong--or what was wrong in the past! And finally, if you can't take criticism or negative post then for the love of god, don't post it on a public message board.

allinaugust · #17 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 10:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cubmom2

Navy relief, when we were in, was ONLY for EXTREME cases, as it should be. Unexpected funerals, car repairs, MAYBE A HIGH ER CHAMPUS BILL *smirk*...I indeed know about Navy relief..and I would not lower myself to ask for this when others truly needed it. We managed...and yes, I did pick out poo from my baby's diaper.

This could be an entire new thread..but PLEASE do not tell this retired Navy person how the real military is...I lived it for 20 years..

I know all about Navy Relief and what it's purpose is. Funny, you wouldn't "lower yoursefl" to request help from your own (we take care of our own is the motto, no???) yet, you had no qualms with trying to get FREE LUNCH when CLEARLY you did NOT need it??? Unbelievable!!

We served for over 24 years, same time frame you all seemed to have served.....hmmmm, isn't that something?? I know all about the "real" military you speak of.

jenh22 · #18 (**permalink**) 03-31-2009, 11:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by allinaugust

you had no qualms with trying to get FREE LUNCH when CLEARLY you did NOT need it??? Unbelievable!!

How exactly does one determine who truly needs free/reduced lunches? Does anyone really *need* free lunches? Is there actually anyone in this country that can't slap some peanut butter between two pieces of bread? If someone is completely destitute then they qualify for food stamps. If you have too much income to qualify for food stamps there isn't any reason you can't buy a loaf of bread.

I spend about $200 a month to feed a family of four, I know people on food stamps that get way more than that. They had a thing on CNN where an reporter had to live one month on food stamps. He got $176 for one person. They also showed a family that was getting over $500 a month, They said it wasn't enough to last the month and they often had to go without. I would love to have that much to spend, oh and btw, both parents were overweight so I doubt they really skipped that many meals.

All that said, I have no problem with someone recieving f/r lunches if they qualify. (I have no idea what cubmom's situation with the lunches was) .

It's a program to give extra help to lower income families, I'm fine with that. But no one truly needs it, I'm sure everyone could find a way to make do if the program didn't exist.

We don't qualify for free or reduced lunches, or anything else. If we did, I might consider taking the help. I know we would survive without it, but so would everyone else.

opaldancing · #19 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 12:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cubmom2

Yes, right now we have 2 households..out of necessity. My dh took a job in another state, our plan was to sell our home here and we'd move and live as a family again in the state where he works. Unfortunately, the housing bubble crashed, and our house did not sell as fast.

That's not NECESSITY - that's another bad financial decision you made that didn't work out the way you wanted. You wanted a better paycheck so instead of doing the smart thing and calculating the cost of maintaining two households against the raise in salary, you lost thousands of dollars by setting up two households you can't afford. You still don't see that this is your fault! You blame your employer for money mistakes that you yourself made.

The smart thing to do now is to cut your losses - calculate all the money you're wasting on maintaining two households and lower the asking price of your house accordingly. Sitting around waiting for the real estate market to recover and standing firm on the asking price of your house is an investment strategy that isn't right for your precarious financial position. It's a luxury you can't afford so lose a little on the house price to save a lot on living expenses.

allinaugust · #20 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 11:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jenh22

How exactly does one determine who truly needs free/reduced lunches? Does anyone really *need* free lunches? Is there actually anyone in this country that can't slap some peanut butter between two pieces of bread? If someone is completely destitute then they qualify for food stamps. If you have too much income to qualify for food stamps there isn't any reason you can't buy a loaf of bread.

I spend about $200 a month to feed a family of four, I know people on food stamps that get way more than that. They had a thing on CNN where an reporter had to live one month on food stamps. He got $176 for one person. They also showed a family that was getting over $500 a month, They said it wasn't enough to last the month and they often had to go without. I would love to have that much to spend, oh and btw, both parents were overweight so I doubt they really skipped that many meals.

All that said, I have no problem with someone recieving f/r lunches if they qualify. (I have no idea what cubmom's situation with the lunches was) .

It's a program to give extra help to lower income families, I'm fine with that. But no one truly needs it, I'm sure everyone could find a way to make do if the program didn't exist.

We don't qualify for free or reduced lunches, or anything else. If we did, I might consider taking the help. I know we would survive without it, but so would everyone else.

Here's the school lunch thread:

would I? should I? get free lunch for my ds ?

I know there's a lot of fraud that goes on with this form.

I'm with you on the "if you qualify". The income limits are set by the gov't, I guess, and if you (truthfully) fall within those guidelines, then you qualify. I think all income should be inclulded, even "in kind" allowance for base houseing. I just think it's a shame that someone would try to scam for free lunch. I know how costly it can be, but, personally if we don't qualify we don't qualify.

I'm also with you on people will get by w/out free lunch. I'm not saying don't help people that need it, just let's do a better job of screening, and maybe educating, people???

Anyway, there's the thread......

lytlemss · #21 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 01:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jenh22

But no one truly needs it, I'm sure everyone could find a way to make do if the program didn't exist.

Not true! If the program didn't exist, there would be some very hungry children in America. I would rather t hem have food stamps than to be faced with eating from garbage cans.
I really do not understand why people are upset about a program that feeds people.
Yes, I know there are some that do not "need" food stamps, but the majority of people that do receive them, NEED them.
People should be more concerned with all the "giving" to the wealthy programs, instead of arguing about food for poor people.
It blows my mind.

cubmom2 · #22 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 01:10 PM

Some people on her are just talking out of their behinds..

skeevylorrie · #23 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 01:27 PM

Sorry, but you brought this on yourself and seem to be acting like a behind. Do you not get that your 2 house situation was a choice? If you HONESTLY want to do something more than garner sympathy for your situation, then go to HGTV - Decorating, Home Improvement, Landscaping Ideas, Kitchen and Bathroom Design : Home & Garden Television and click on the message boards towards the bottom of the page. There are several real estate forums where you can post your mls# and people (many are professionals) will help you stage and give you other valuable tips to get your house sold.

You have many excuses and have continued to post them, but instead of that, just take a minute to think what you can do to change the situation. If you are strapped, try to find some more ways of generating income. You could apply to work online for Chacha (feel free to pm me any questions), you could do surveys online, maybe do some babysitting, buy stuff at garage sales to Ebay.....

There are so many things you can do to either cutback OR to bring in more income. You just need to be creative and think outside the box and not place the blame (like had to have 2nd household). I won't even comment on the military situation as I am not military. Maybe if you asked for help on creating a better situation instead of posting how bad you have it others here would be happier to help you out constructively.

jenh22 · #24 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 01:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lytlemss

Not true! If the program didn't exist, there would be some very hungry children in America. I would rather t hem have food stamps than to be faced with eating from garbage cans.
I really do not understand why people are upset about a program that feeds people.
Yes, I know there are some that do not "need" food stamps, but the majority of people that do receive them, NEED them.
People should be more concerned with all the "giving" to the wealthy programs, instead of arguing about food for poor people.
It blows my mind.

You must not have really read my post!

I said that f/r lunch program are not a true need because of food stamps.

If someone is on food stamps the can use their stamps to make a lunch to send with their kid.

Yes! Food stamps fill a need. I never said they didn't.

Programs like f/r lunches provide *extra help*. I'm sure people on f/r lunch still manage to feed their kids on weekends and during the summer.

I have no problem with programs that provide extra help!

Learn to read the whole post before you go off in a huff!

susiecat · #25 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 01:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lytlemss

Not true! If the program didn't exist, there would be some very hungry children in America. I would rather t hem have food stamps than to be faced with eating from garbage cans.
I really do not understand why people are upset about a program that feeds people.
Yes, I know there are some that do not "need" food stamps, but the majority of people that do receive them, NEED them.
People should be more concerned with all the "giving" to the wealthy programs, instead of arguing about food for poor people.
It blows my mind.

I totally agree with this. I get so tired of hearing people complain about the government helping it's citizens.

lytlemss · #26 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 01:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jenh22

You must not have really read my post!

I said that f/r lunch program are not a true need because of food stamps.

If someone is on food stamps the can use their stamps to make a lunch to send with their kid.

Yes! Food stamps fill a need. I never said they didn't.

Programs like f/r lunches provide *extra help*. I'm sure people on f/r lunch still manage to feed their kids on weekends and during the summer.

I have no problem with programs that provide extra help!

Learn to read the whole post before you go off in a huff!

There are free lunch programs for children on the weekends and in the Summer in certain states.
I wasn't being personally huffy with you, sorry, just quoted from your post but, If you have no problem with programs that provide extra help, why complain about the free lunch?

lytlemss · #27 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 02:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by skeevylorrie

If you are strapped, try to find some more ways of generating income. You could apply to work online for Chacha.

Howdy co-Independant Contractor(

)
ChaCha is a great way to earn cash. It pays my electric, internet, phone, and directv bills and supplements my shopping whims. It takes a little longer to earn now that there's no top guide pay, but still make a decent earning at home.

marilynk · #28 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 02:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cubmom2

Some people on her are just talking out of their behinds..

Seriously? You actually believe that, don't you? You still have not grasped a few key points: 1) if you post on a message board be prepared for the good, the bad and the ugly. If you start taking things personally, you're going to have your feelings hurt--a lot! 2) your whole attitude just reeks of a sense of entitlement, excuses and rationalization, 3) you could change things if you wanted to, you really could. Lots of people only have one house in foreclosure or repossession. They don't have the luxury of 2 houses. If YOU lose one, at least you will still have another one to live in. 4) you need to get over your anger and resentment for the military, and the wrongs you feel they have heaped upon you and yours. Get a grip.

If you don't feel you have done anything wrong, or that you are incorrect then why keep defending yourself and giving rationalizations for your behaviour? And why keep coming back and creating more fuel for a fire.

jenh22 · #29 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 02:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lytlemss

If you have no problem with programs that provide extra help, why complain about the free lunch?

I didn't actually complain about free lunch.

My problem is with people decide that those who rightfully qualify for the program don't really need it. I've heard many times, not just here, but IRL people say "even if someone qualifies for it (f/r lunch, W.I.C., ect) they shouldn't take it unless they *need* it"

Well that would exclude just about everyone.

*Need* isn't really the point of the program since most people would make do somehow without it.

So to say "whatshername's kids qualify for f/r lunches, but I don't think they *really* need it" Is ridiculous because almost no one on the program *really* needs it. It's there to provide extra help for those that qualify plain and simple.

Whether a person that qualifies should take it or not, is up to them.

jenh22 · #30 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 02:16 PM

But of course everything I've said is moot in this thread since it appears that the OP didn't actually qualify for f/r lunch, but instead originally failed to report all her income to the school. Then I guess she canceled her application, since she now says she didn't apply.

usnamom · #31 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 02:47 PM

I guess I don't see it as such a huge issue as everyone else does. Free lunch at school is such a small thing. It means that a child who might be hungry at school can get food in his/her belly so that he/she can concentrate and study. I would rather err on the side of someone not deserving it and having a child eat than to tell someone they didn't deserve it and punish the kid, KWIM?

Bigger fish to fry, I think.

I grew up in the military and though my dad was an officer, there were times things were tight I know. We certainly didn't qualify for food stamps. But if someone feels that they did, no matter if they were poor money managers, it is money for FOOD. Not diamonds or trips to Cancun.

You can flame me if you want...but I think that the op doesn't need to explain herself. I wouldn't open myself up here to what she has. Not here.

allinaugust · #32 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 04:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jenh22

I didn't actually complain about free lunch.

My problem is with people decide that those who rightfully qualify for the program don't really need it. I've heard many times, not just here, but IRL people say "even if someone qualifies for it (f/r lunch, W.I.C., ect) they shouldn't take it unless they *need* it"

Well that would exclude just about everyone.

*Need* isn't really the point of the program since most people would make do somehow without it.

So to say "whatshername's kids qualify for f/r lunches, but I don't think they *really* need it" Is ridiculous because almost no one on the program *really* needs it. It's there to provide extra help for those that qualify plain and simple.

Whether a person that qualifies should take it or not, is up to them.

Well, here's my beef...... the ones who don't report all of their income to qualify. EX: military pay with all the allowances, special pay, etc. On the back of the form it tells you to report "in kind" allowances, as well. This would be the amount you WOULD get if you did NOT live in gov't housing. Many leave this off since it doesn't show up on an LES, or at the end of the year in your W-2. Here's a better example, maybe?? Ok, a person gets a W-2 at the end of the year, it shows $35,000. For argument's sake, let's say that qualifies them for food stamps and free lunch. They have 3 kids. Ok, now...... throw in there $900 ($10,800 a year) a month NOT on the W-2 for a housing allowance, and oh, another $30,000 for being on a air craft carrier in the Gulf, during a war, so that is not taxed and hence not on a W-2. Now, do you think that is right for someone bringing in over $75,000 a year to get FREE lunch or food stamps?? I think they should include ALL income, and give a true and accurate picture.

I understand the "who needs it" thing, and who is to say who needs it, if they qualify based on the income guidelines. But, they need to report all income.

jenh22 · #33 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 04:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by allinaugust

I think they should include ALL income, and give a true and accurate picture.

Agreed.

I hate the 10 character rule.

xpcandy · #34 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 04:27 PM

WAY TMI

lytlemss · #35 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 04:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by allinaugust

Well, here's my beef...... the ones who don't report all of their income to qualify. EX: military pay with all the allowances, special pay, etc. On the back of the form it tells you to report "in kind" allowances, as well. This would be the amount you WOULD get if you did NOT live in gov't housing. Many leave this off since it doesn't show up on an LES, or at the end of the year in your W-2. Here's a better example, maybe?? Ok, a person gets a W-2 at the end of the year, it shows $35,000. For argument's sake, let's say that qualifies them for food stamps and free lunch. They have 3 kids. Ok, now...... throw in there $900 ($10,800 a year) a month NOT on the W-2 for a housing allowance, and oh, another $30,000 for being on a air craft carrier in the Gulf, during a war, so that is not taxed and hence not on a W-2. Now, do you think that is right for someone bringing in over $75,000 a year to get FREE lunch or food stamps?? I think they should include ALL income, and give a true and accurate picture.

I understand the "who needs it" thing, and who is to say who needs it, if they qualify based on the income guidelines. But, they need to report all income.

ITA with everything you said! All income should be reported before qualifying. If someone makes over $75,000 a year, they can certainly afford to feed themselves with that income. I actually think that people can afford to purchase their own food when they make much less. I don't like the idea of hungry people, but if someone cannot afford food because they have to pay for luxuries, then they shouldn't qualify for food stamps. Luxuries are anything besides shelter, electric, and food. I was going to add tampons but if it really came down to it, and I had to chose between tampons and a plate of food for my daughter, I would have to choose the food, even though I would be really gross. AAAAAHHHHHH!!! LOL!!!!

usnamom · #36 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 05:00 PM

No, I think everyone should post all their income to qualify and I think for the most part, don't you think that people do? There will always be those people for whom the rules don't apply and they get away with things. I don't know what the answer is but I taught and I saw kids who didn't have food and who couldn't charge their lunches any more. Their parents did not qualify for free or reduced lunches for whatever reason, laziness, lack of information or they didn't qualify and just spent their money on everything but food for the kids. Those kids did not eat. They did not learn because they were hungry. It is a sad situation all the way around. There will always be those who try and work the system. Look at all the people who work Target or a coupon not in the way intended or who steal allllll the wine tags they can find or take coupon inserts out of papers they haven't paid for.

deddlastt · #37 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 06:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cubmom2

Some people on her are just talking out of their behinds..

Would that be dried poo pellets or mush turds or tarry stools?

Oh, yes, that would be dried poo pellets.

dl

ILUVLUCY420 · #38 (**permalink**) 04-01-2009, 11:26 PM

usamon your so correct, the op cubmon does not have to explain her suituation here, yes she did come to the boards to discuss a issue and then came back to explain it further. As you said and as i have learned there are some subjects I will never ever discuss for the same reasons. I have long fugured out what subjects in my personal life I will discuss and which ones I will not. Granted again this is a open public forum and if you choose to come here and openly discuss some hot or debated or extremely personal issues, you will not always like the answers nor the replies. However I still believe that enough still if we disagree, we should be able to do it in a nice way, sadly that does not happen. Op cubmon I wish you well and sorry you have gotten some bad responses, you have no one person to answer too but yourself. Because again and in the end your the one who has to live with your decisions and choices. Best of luck and peace to you. Catherine

groovygirl · #39 (**permalink**) 04-02-2009, 01:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by usnamom

No, I think everyone should post all their income to qualify and I think for the most part, don't you think that people do? There will always be those people for whom the rules don't apply and they get away with things. I don't know what the answer is but I taught and I saw kids who didn't have food and who couldn't charge their lunches any more. Their parents did not qualify for free or reduced lunches for whatever reason, laziness, lack of information or they didn't qualify and just spent their money on everything but food for the kids. Those kids did not eat. They did not learn because they were hungry. It is a sad situation all the way around. There will always be those who try and work the system. Look at all the people who work Target or a coupon not in the way intended or who steal allllll the wine tags they can find or take coupon inserts out of papers they haven't paid for.

Wow, we have those kids here....lots of them,. but we are not allowed to leave them hungry. They get a cheese sandwich and an apple...even with no money or free lunch. I am very thankful for that, because if not, I would be feeding my students.

jenh22 · #40 (**permalink**) 04-02-2009, 02:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by groovygirl

Wow, we have those kids here....lots of them,. but we are not allowed to leave them hungry. They get a cheese sandwich and an apple...even with no money or free lunch. I am very thankful for that, because if not, I would be feeding my students.

Same here, if a student forgets their lunch or lunch money they get a sack lunch with a sandwich (used to be pb&j, now it's ham & cheese) a piece of fruit and milk.

We just had a thread about this because there was an article where some parents complained that it was unfair for their kids to just get a sack lunch.

usnamom · #41 (**permalink**) 04-02-2009, 03:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by groovygirl

Wow, we have those kids here....lots of them,. but we are not allowed to leave them hungry. They get a cheese sandwich and an apple...even with no money or free lunch. I am very thankful for that, because if not, I would be feeding my students.

I think that now they have so many days they can charge lunch and then they qualify for a cheese sandwich but when my boys were in school, it was not an option to charge beyond a few days and then the kid didn't eat. Unless a teacher or someone else paid for his/her lunch.
I remember there being a huge outcry in the community when it got out that we were "giving" lunches without payment to kids. Even though it is for food we had people saying we couldn't give away their tax dollars when the kids had parents that were supposed to feed them. We were accused of babying those parents and we were supposed to let them go hungry as punishment, I guess, for their parents inablity to manage their money. It was a sad situation.

groovygirl · #42 (**permalink**) 04-02-2009, 03:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by usnamom

I think that now they have so many days they can charge lunch and then they qualify for a cheese sandwich but when my boys were in school, it was not an option to charge beyond a few days and then the kid didn't eat. Unless a teacher or someone else paid for his/her lunch.
I remember there being a huge outcry in the community when it got out that we were "giving" lunches without payment to kids. Even though it is for food we had people saying we couldn't give away their tax dollars when the kids had parents that were supposed to feed them. We were accused of babying those parents and we were supposed to let them go hungry as punishment, I guess, for their parents inablity to manage their money. It was a sad situation.

That is sad! I don;t think it is EVER okay to punish a child for what the parent does.

allinaugust · #43 (**permalink**) 04-02-2009, 03:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by usnamom

I think that now they have so many days they can charge lunch and then they qualify for a cheese sandwich but when my boys were in school, it was not an option to charge beyond a few days and then the kid didn't eat. Unless a teacher or someone else paid for his/her lunch.
I remember there being a huge outcry in the community when it got out that we were "giving" lunches without payment to kids. Even though it is for food we had people saying we couldn't give away their tax dollars when the kids had parents that were supposed to feed them. We were accused of babying those parents and we were supposed to let them go hungry as punishment, I guess, for their parents inablity to manage their money. It was a sad situation.

We were at one school that gave the kids PBJ, fruit, milk if they have lunch money, or forgot their lunch, whatever the situation was. This was funded by the PTA, so no tax money involved. I don't know what they do at the schools we're at now, my kids pay full price for their lunches.

skeevylorrie · #44 (**permalink**) 04-02-2009, 05:33 PM

PB and J is not the stigma lunch at our schools. They offer this as an option and the kids get a smuckers sandwich, cheese stick, a chex mix type thing and milk. My kids all love this option as I don't buy those things in the stores as they are pricey and my kids eat them all within an hour of me buying them. I will admit that we do get free lunch, but I claimed 100% of my income and it's needed. At our school, they all get free breakfast and lunch and they are very well fed. Thanks to this, I don't feel horrible if dinner is something as basic as noodles and sauce and I don't worry about buying milk all the time as I know they are getting 2 glasses of it at school. This program has been a lifesaver for the kids and I.

jenh22 · #45 (**permalink**) 04-02-2009, 06:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by allinaugust

We were at one school that gave the kids PBJ, fruit, milk if they have lunch money, or forgot their lunch, whatever the situation was. This was funded by the PTA, so no tax money involved. I don't know what they do at the schools we're at now, my kids pay full price for their lunches.

Here if a child gets a sack lunch because they forgot one the parents are still responsible for paying for it. It's just added on to their lunch account. Even if the parents never send in lunch money though the kids can still continue to get sack lunches indefinitely. At the end of the year the parents will receive a bill from the school.

Here even the kids who have money in their account or are on the free lunch program have the choice of having a sack lunch if the don't like what is offered on the tray lunch.

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode