Las Vegas NowNumber of Food Stamp Recipients Rising

Number of Food Stamp Recipients Rising

(Apr. 26) -- A new report out of Washington says Nevada has the second fastest-growing food stamp system in the nation. The number of people needing help almost doubled over a four-year time span.

This truly highlights the impact of the Valley's growth on state services. Four years ago more than 61,000 people received food stamps every month in Nevada. That number has now grown to 119,000 a month -- and climbing. While the increased demand will tax the state coffers, many in Las Vegas are happy to see such a dramatic change.

Trisha White is 22. She has 6-year-old twins, a 1-year-old and is pregnant with twins again. She needs food stamps to get by. "Between bills, pampers, bottles, milk there's really no money left over so you have to get food stamps to feed yourself and your child."

The state blames growth in the Las Vegas Valley for the increase in food stamp recipients. While the program is helping more people, critics say it's falling short.

Linda Lera-Randle El, homeless advocate, says, "What they are eligible for still isn't enough. It's why I am distributing food today is to make sure we fit in for those that are falling between the cracks."

Every day, Lera-Randle El drives her own car around town, giving food she's made to people who need it. Mostly homeless, but also those receiving assistance. For many, the state hand-out doesn't offer enough of a hand-up.

Lisa Lynn Chapman, with Safe Nest: "When people come in here to our shelter for assistance we ask them to apply for food stamps."

At the Safe Nest domestic violence center, clients apply for food stamps, which the center then uses to feed everyone.

Lisa Lynn Chapman, with Safe Nest: "Then when they leave they take what food stamps they get with them and it helps them bridge that gap."

A gap Trisha White is trying to bridge. She's felt the stares and heard the whispers at the grocery store, but ignores them and thinks only about her kids. "It makes me feel really good. It makes me proud to be a parent, for me it's a really good thing. You feel like you're making it better for your kid -- easier for your kid."

UNLV researcher Hal Rothman says the increase in food stamp usage also highlights the financial problems many new Valley residents have once they move here. He says the Valley's population is growing faster than the economy. And what new jobs are being created, are low paying.

Nevada's Department of Human Resources expects the number of food stamp recipients to balloon again this year. Another 14,000 people could be added to the state's welfare rolls.