About 20 years ago, as a 19 year old blonde haired blue eyed single Mom of 2 babies I lost my Job at Peterson's Publishing. My sister, whom I lived with insisted I apply for benefits till I find a new job.

I was instructed on how to find the LA welfare office. From a small town I was shocked to find a large room filled with hundreds of applicants for food stamps, medical, and money. There were lines at the counter for several different languages. At least 15 other languages, greatful to find the ENGLISH line, it only had about 3 people in front of me. The other lines were incredibly long.

Looking around I was I believe the ONLY blonde young woman with two blond babies. I felt alone, looking for someone who spoke English. I would have to wait 2 days before I could speak with a worker. The first day was hard. My 2 and 3 year old hot and sweaty, no friends to play with as they only spoke English. Other groups of kids played games but they spoke spanish, my kids weren't included.

The second day a guy from Guatemalla who lived in our apartment complex with his sister offered to go along and help with the kids and language barrier. I gladly accepted. The day was much better as I had a translater and was able to communicate with other children and mothers. Mostly spanish speaking.

Worker was rude to me. Asked what 'I' was doing applying for benefits. I didn't look poor. And most of all who was that guy in the waiting room with me? My live in boyfriend? And if I last worked for Peterson's Publishing in LA why did my paychecks come from New York? (because that was the main payroll office). She was rude to me and skeptical. I had to get the owner and manager of the building to give written verifiable statements that the 'Mexican man helping me was not my live in lover. and that my payroll checks came from New York.

It was one experience I will never forget as I had already worked 2 years paying taxes, had been a military dependent as my estranged spouse was serving his country (our country)... and my entire family had paid taxes in all their lives so people like me, an American citizen could get temporary help if the need arrised.

That was the beginning of my concern about how many illegal immigrants were using American Tax Dollars.

SusieQ