Earlier this week, the Trump administration proposed a vague new idea on how to combat hunger. The proposal issued stated a plan to replace more than 40% of SNAP benefits given to recipients with a “Harvest Box”. These boxes would contain non-perishable foods selected by the government (for the people) and would be distributed monthly. While my initial reaction was positive, it changed quickly after reading certain criticism. The plan offered no specifics on what would be in the boxes and if they would consider food allergies, fussy eaters, SNAP recipients whose addresses often change, and people finding themselves temporarily homeless. I also found myself wondering if the contents of the boxes would require kitchenware like a functioning stove, a microwave, or some type of refridgeration post cooking. What happens near the end of the month when the contents of the box have been used up and no funds are left in benefits?
While the U.S. government should be taking action to fight hunger, I do not think that “Harvest Boxes” are the way to go. They are focusing way too much on agribusiness and less on the people who are actually going hungry. Welfare recipients already have to accept that they’re receiving welfare, and at least they have the power to choose what they buy with their food stamps. By taking away that ability, it offers less control in the lives of welfare reliant individuals and allows for the government to fully take over. The government needs to focus on the wellbeing of the people, not the industries they own.
When I heard about this, people were comparing this idea to Blue Apron. While I believe the intentions are good, this just isn’t a realistic means of feeding people, for the exact reasons you mentioned. Not everyone can eat the same food. This gives the government control over what someone puts into their body, and that’s not ok. It would be better if the recipients could select from a menu each month, but I think a lenient program like that would get very costly.