This is one story. But it’s not rare. It’s everywhere.

When the government fails families, children suffer.

Vote for leaders who see these families — not shame them.

#SNAP #PovertyInAmerica #WorkingMoms #CostOfLiving #FoodInsecurity

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They are your family.

They are Americans.

They are so tired.

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I make too much money.

So when you say horrible things about the people who are about to lose their benefits… remember: they are your hometown friends.

Your child’s classmates. Your favorite bartender’s grandparents.

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I have been a recipient of SNAP when I lost my job.

I’ve applied twice this year and was denied because I “make too much money.”

$20 a month left for groceries, gas, clothes for Mila.

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Read that again.

So many Americans do not have a village.

I am so tired.

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I didn’t plan on having to depend on my family to fill in the gaps.
That’s on me, too.

Thank God for my family — they will never let us go without.

But so many do not have the village that I have.

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“Shouldn’t have had kids if you can’t afford them.”

I didn’t plan on being a parent. That’s on me.
I didn’t plan on losing my dream job during Covid. That’s on me.
I didn’t plan on a failed marriage. That’s on me.

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That leaves $20 for everything else.
$5 a week.

I picked up a side gig that adds $400 a month. I wish I could work more.

But that girl has a little girl of her own now.

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After taxes, I bring home $2,800 a month.
My small apartment? $1,250.
My daughter’s daycare? $1,050.
My car payment? $480.

That’s $2,780 for three bills.

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I work. I work hard. I make more money than many Americans.

It should be a livable wage.

It SHOULD be a livable wage.

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I read your disgusting comments about benefits getting cut for 42 million Americans next month—60% of them children.

“Get a job!” “If you have a job, you can afford to eat.” “I bet they have their lashes done, though.”

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That girl is so very tired.

That girl, who has a little girl of her own now, is hanging on by a thread.

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The girl who woke up at 5 a.m. to make sure your family’s visit to the Pyramid was magical. The girl who created joy for thousands of families on vacation.

And now, the smiling girl who helps you pick out plants to brighten your life.

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Your hometown friend. The girl on the dance floor in your college memories. The one who mixed your drinks and listened to your stories. The girl who loved animals and got you tickets to the zoo.

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Vulnerable Post Ahead:

As I was washing Mila’s hair tonight and hearing her giggle in the tub, my heart and mind began to wander and break.

I am so tired.