Cory Booker started his food stamp challenge today (Dec. 4) and some are following in his footsteps.
The Newark, NJ mayor posted on his very active Twitter that he started his new Linkedln blog post for the SNAP challenge called "A Movement Toward Food Justice."
"This morning, I will begin living on a food budget of $30 a week / $4.32 per day. This is the financial equivalent of the budget provided to people participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, in the State of New Jersey. I will live only on a SNAP equivalent food budget for the next seven days," Booker wrote on his blog.
"My goals for the #SNAPChallenge are to raise awareness and understanding of food insecurity; reduce the stigma of SNAP participation; elevate innovative local and national food justice initiatives and food policy; and, amplify compassion for individuals and communities in need of assistance. Over the next seven days, I plan to highlight the voices of people involved in local food policy, the SNAP program, and other related initiatives."
Booker accepted the SNAP challenge from Twitter follower @MWadeNC, a.k.a Twitwit, that he will try to live on the monetary equivalent of food stamps for at least a week. He also challenged her to do the same, which she accepted.
"December 4 to 11. Seven days," Booker said after the ribbon cutting for new loft apartments in Newark on Thursday. He told The Associated Press that he would be limited to $1.40 for each meal.
Booker tweeted a picture of his Pathmark receipt earlier Monday. Some of the items purchased were apples, corn, broccoli, and lots of pink beans.
One Twitter follower tweeted to Booker, "Where are you getting your coffee?" The mayor responded, "It isn't in the budget. Day one, no caffeine."
It looks like some of Booker's 1.2 million Twitter followers are following him in real-life. One tweet said, "Here we go!" sharing a picture of a receipt from Safeway. Booker responded, "Thanks for sharing this & joining." Another tweet said, "Following @CoryBooker @waywire #SNAPchallenge Food Stamp Odyssey (living on a food budget of $30.wk)."
Booker said that he will document his food stamp challenge experiences and reflections on his Linkedln blog, Twitter, Facebook, and through video on #waywire.
What do you think of the SNAP challenge? Sound off below!
