First I would like to introduce myself: I am Katina Mitchell, a sophomore in engineering and a current student living on food stamps. I am writing to you about the CSLEPS movie focused on local poverty article you published on Feb. 24, 2011. Many people do not understand the hardships faced by those in society living on food stamps and most commonly assume that they are lazy, but I am a full-time student with two part time jobs and every single day is a struggle. The CSLEPS movie article was simply excellent, but sadly I was not in town to see the movie. I personally felt that the article truly helped bring awareness to campus about local poverty and the issues many people in our area face with using food stamps. I do believe that that most students do not live off food stamps, but I’m sure there is someone in their life that does. That someone the student could possibly know has to go through the dilemma of buying less-expensive and unhealthy foods to make it through the month on their food stamps, which in turn leads to unhealthy people who can also become overweight and leads to other issues. I trust that someday these issues will be challenged within the system, but until then bringing knowledge and understanding to those who do not use food stamps will be the best way to keep awareness of the issues.

Katina Mitchell

sophomore, engineering