Was in a bad run of unemployment, had to apply for the card. I tried to hide it, but the monitor over the cash register would print it out below the balance:
FOOD STAMPS
I think the store changed the policy on that at some point -- much to my relief. But I always made sure that the card disappeared back into my pocket as soon as it left the slot. It was a pride thing I had going on then.
If I ate anything at all in a day it was food I could afford within my means. If I wanted a fancy, expensive meal I'd have to wait until one of my better-off friends or family invited me out to dinner.
At the time it would have been better if I had died in my sleep or been run over by a semi. But looking back on the experience I'm glad I had the help.
I don't worry too much about what other people do with their EBT cards. What's important to me is that I keep my nose to the grindstone and do the best I can. That much I can be happy about, and I still have a clear conscience.
