Clara Moore worked as a chef, food writer and food educator before deciding to change careers and study anti-poverty policy. She is pursuing a master’s degree at the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University. The views expressed in this commentary are her own. View more opinion on CNN.
(CNN)I’m a professionally trained chef. I’ve published a book, been profiled in several newspapers and even appeared briefly on a Bravo cooking competition show. Until a few years ago, I even co-owned a restaurant in St. Louis.
I’ve also been a recipient of SNAP (formerly known as food stamps) in three states.