In Louisiana House Speaker Mike Johnson’s district, many residents rely on anti-poverty programs like Medicaid and food stamps to make ends meet. They are urging Congress to protect these benefits as steep federal spending cuts are considered. Pastor Leroy McClelland, who volunteers at a food bank, emphasized the importance of government assistance, which he depends on after facing medical issues. Nearly 25% of adults under 65 in Johnson’s district rely on Medicaid, while almost 20% of households receive food stamps.
There is concern among residents like Summer Stinson, a mother of four, about potential cuts to these safety net programs. While Johnson and Trump have said Medicaid benefits will not be cut, there are doubts about achieving savings without cutting these programs. Republicans are considering work requirements for able-bodied adults on Medicaid, but in Vinton, job opportunities are limited, transportation is lacking, and many struggle with the cost of goods. The local food bank run by Pastor Don Snider helps thousands of people each month.
Residents like Angel Lejune rely on the food bank for survival, with some even picking up food for multiple families. Dwayne Dousay, a retired microbiologist and caregiver to his disabled grandson, supports efforts to rein in federal spending but fears devastating impacts if social safety net programs are slashed. The community, still recovering from natural disasters, is struggling with high grocery prices. The reliance on assistance programs like Medicaid and food stamps is crucial for many residents in Vinton.
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