Welfare Programs

Welfare

Just as President Bush has said in his first inaugural address, people across the country suffer from lack of food and adequate shelter. I am sensitive to the plight that faces many of our nation’s poor. In 2003, it is estimated that 12.3 million children lived in families with incomes below the poverty line (a 17.2% child poverty rate). Research has shown that poverty can have negative consequences on a child's development. I believe that the work of caring for our nation’s poor is our duty as Americans, not just the duty of the government. Thus, I support the work of Faith Based Organizations as they strive to provide citizens in need with proper care.

Like all government initiatives, welfare should be subject to strict observation and review. Though welfare’s success has previously been measured by how many people are currently recipients of AFDC, food stamps, and Medicaid, this analysis is flawed. Instead, welfare should be evaluated by a different measure of success - how many people no longer need AFDC, Food Stamps and Medicaid and are moved into a life of self-sufficiency, dignity and hope. Welfare assistance should be a ‘hand-up’ not a ‘hand-out.’ While this program has been proven to be an overall success, what is really needed is a cultural shift in our society to address the problems of welfare dependency.

Related Issue:

http://www.dhcd.state.md.us