I have never wrote a letter to the editor before, but I felt
the need to do so this time. With regards to Sara Anderson
putting her life in danger to get the attention of the
government to increase social assistance rates, I have many
things to say to those that don't agree with the situation
these people have to deal with.
I am a hard-working single mother who has had to turn to
social assistance in the past and I agree that an increase is
necessary. For example, someone wrote that people on assistance
should just get a job. Well, that's easier said then done.
I'll give you an example of what it's like for someone on
assistance trying to get a job with very little money to
prepare themselves for the occasion. Let's pretend I am on
assistance. I go to meet with a employer to discuss an
employment opportunity. I have all the required skills and
somewhat of a nice smile, since I can afford toothpaste (only
79 cents), but have tooth decay cause I can't afford to see a
dentist. My hair is very long and oily since I can't afford to
get a regular haircut, but I have it up in a nice barrette I
bought at the dollar store. My clothing is outdated, faded and
needs ironing badly, but it was just given to me by a charity.
I smell great, though, because I went to Sears and got a
perfume sample.
Based on appearances alone, do you honestly think an
employer would hire me even if I have all the qualifications
for the job over a more "presentable" candidate? I think not.
Those of you who do not agree with the need to increase
social assistance rates need to give people a break before
knocking them for not having a job.
Natalie Brassard
Sudbury