The recipients of Food-Stamps are allowed to purchase energy drinks and products, which simply should be a prohibited purchase. These drinks cost on average $4. and due to their addictive nature many recipients purchase at minimum one a day. That is approximately $121.00 per month. The national monthly stamp average per family for 2014 was $256. ( http://www.fns.usda.gov/sites/default/files/pd/19SNAPavg$HH.pdf ). This leaves the family $135 for food purchases. 47% of Food-Stamps are being spent on energy drinks and does not benefit the family as a whole.
I believe that this is an epidemic in Mississippi and Alabama. However, that does not mean that recipients are abusing or taking advantage of the program in other states. Food-Stamps should be used to purchase food.
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