Since learning of the prospect of federal funding cuts for programs serving lower income persons, I have been very concerned, but unsure of what I could do. Then I thought of the SNAP Challenge – living on the average single person’s weekly food stamp benefit of $50.50.

Barely staying within my $50.50 limit, I bought enough food for the menu I designed, thanks to the less expensive Hannaford brands. I survived the week on my budget, but I was often hungry throughout the day and on some nights I went to bed hungry. During the week, I found myself monitoring remaining portions of food, such as slices of bread, to be sure that I would have enough for the week.

My greatest finding was that it would be very difficult to live on the SNAP benefit on an ongoing basis. Perhaps my body would adjust to a lower food intake, but continuing to eat the same boring menu would be very challenging.

Having experienced the challenge, I can’t imagine doing so on a lower benefit. Relying on a food bank would be necessary but federal support for banks has already been cut, putting a stress on their resources.

I urge Maine’s congressional delegation to please not reduce the SNAP benefit that many disadvantaged persons rely on. In particular, please do not cut funding for SNAP, Medicaid, rental assistance and other programs that are so essential for many Maine residents in order to pay for tax cuts.

John Grew
Cape Elizabeth