Understanding The Impact Of Benefit Cuts On Texas Families

We are about to enter unprecedented times when it comes to people who rely on government benefits.

Let’s skip the “why we are here” part of the conversation. You already have an opinion that probably lines up with whatever side of the political fence you’re on. Instead, let’s talk about what really matters — the realities of people suddenly not receiving these benefits.

First off, don’t buy into those fake A.I. videos of overweight people screaming about losing their benefits. Those clips are put together by heartless internet trolls who’ve probably never been hungry a day in their lives. While I wasn’t smart enough to get benefits, I’ve been hungry — like “one packet of ramen a day” hungry — and it’s a sad, sickening, lonely place to be.

Keep in mind that close to one-third of the people who receive benefits already have jobs, and that number climbs to 55% for families with children. These aren’t lazy people. They’re people who work hard but simply don’t make enough to get by. Add in the elderly and disabled, and you start to see the real picture of who’s affected. Sure, there are a few cheats out there, but if it means no hungry kids, I’ll take that trade any day.

Over 1 in 10 Texans Depend on SNAP

Now for the raw numbers. In Texas, 11.4% of people receive SNAP benefits — that’s more than one in ten. In my hometown of Lubbock, that number goes to 12%. In Oklahoma, the number jumps to 17%, and in New Mexico, it’s over 21%. You can feel however you want about this, but the reality is simple: it’s going to have a serious impact on our region.

Maybe this is the perfect time to show a little humanity toward others. You might have friends or coworkers who need help, or there could be a local group that could use donations. And if you ever doubt someone’s food security, invite them over for dinner or a weekend barbecue. A small gesture might mean more than you’ll ever know.

https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/food-nutrition-assistance/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap/key-statistics-and-research

Deadly Texas: The Lone Star State's Most Dangerous Insects & Arachnids

Encounters with Texas insects can be magical (think flights of Monarch butterflies!), but mostly they tend to be neutral or negative. Should you really worry about creepy crawlies in Texas? These are the insects and arachnids you probably should be aware of, as they all could prove potentially fatal (although that outcome is very rare).

Gallery Credit: Renee Raven