Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Monday, August 3, 2009

So thankful... for govt programs...

I just wanted to share a little bit about my experience with government programs. I worked as a dietitian for the WIC program (Women, Infants, and Children) for quite some time. This program provides food to Pregnant/Breastfeeding women, Infants, Children who meet the criteria. Have to have a financial and nutrition need. I saw the affect this program had on women who were truly grateful for it. Sure, there were some people who didn't really appreciate it, and it's not perfect. Not too many program that are not-for-profit are. We were frequently short staffed and people had to wait.

My son is getting speech therapy, and occupational therapy. He was born 1 month premature and has a small problem with muscle development that is causing him trouble to speak. He's been at it for 6 weeks now and it has worked wonders! I can actually have a conversation with him. If it weren't for the Early Intervention program in NYS, I don't know what would have happened. I surely can't afford it on my own.

And while, I am benefitting from all of your precious tax dollars... I never begrudged anyone that did before I used them. I was so thankful that women had access to WIC. That there is Medicaid, Food Stamps, Social Security.

I think we need to remember that nobody is perfect and everyone will need help some time in their life... and that is what being a country is all about isn't it. Isn't that more patriotic than flying a stupid flag outside your home? Picking up the weakest to become the strongest.