There are always people that abuse a system - just like rich people that take advantage (Donald tRump and the billion dollar bail out for example). I agree that it is wrong, but they are a minority.  I used to run a WIC clinic long ago in El Paso.  It really helped people.  In order to pick up  the food cards, with the food designated they had to attend a simple nutrition class.  I got really good responses.  Most people were good and followed the rules, some didn't. We should focus on how many are truly helped by these programs. The intent, like welfare, is that it is temporary and move people in that direction. To your point about SNAP cards, I happen to think that the food they are able to buy should be determined by food group (like the WIC program did) and they should not be used for junk food, soda, candy etc. If they are dependent on a government program, there should be limitations on what they can buy with those cards.  I imagine it must be discouraging for you though.