This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Why is it that so many people dislike the idea of entitlements like food stamps? Why do so many people perpetuate the problem by claiming that more money won't improve education?

Statistics show that upper middle-class and rich families spend about $9,000 per year on their children's education in America. On the other hand, poor families spend an average of $1,300 per year on their children's education. If we want fewer people on food stamps, let's get their children better educational opportunities with health care, nutrition, educational experiences and schools.

Why? Because we're all selfish. We don't want so many people on the public dole.

Ed Cole

Clarks Summit, Pa.