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Why We Should Not Shame Those Receiving Government Assistance and Welfare Programs
There are numerous legitimate reasons why some individuals need assistance, but systemic abuse also exists. Let’s not condemn everyone based on the actions of a few bad actors.
The Financial Reality of Government Welfare
Regardless of what Republican Reagan claimed with his “welfare queens” rhetoric, the amount received by those in need is hardly enough to sustain a decent living. Even the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, which has not been raised since 2009, barely covers basic necessities. If welfare recipients do not deserve government aid and are engaging in fraud, by all means, shame them and inform the appropriate agencies. However, taxpayers who contribute to these programs deserve our concern as well. They are no better than criminals who commit robberies or fraud.
The Consequences of Shaming Welfare Recipients
We have tried the shaming approach, but what does it achieve? If resources are abundant, why limit them to money alone? Could it be boxes of food, free medical clinics, or incentives for starting businesses?
Those who need government assistance or welfare programs often face numerous challenges. For example, my niece’s graduating class had 60 students, but 18 of the girls became pregnant. Why? Because they discovered that having a child would qualify them for various benefits, including welfare, Medicaid, and food stamps. This situation not only ensures their financial independence but also assists them in pursuing higher education without additional income.
Addressing the Core Issues: Systemic Reform and Common Sense
It is not fair to hold all welfare recipients to the same standard. Workers who qualify for workers' compensation are held to a higher standard than welfare recipients, who are often unemployed individuals. Why should welfare recipients be exempt from job search requirements, while workers in the same situation are not?
Welfare programs should be limited to the truly disabled and veterans who are disabled by no fault of their own. Instead of welfare, we should offer support for single parents for two years, requiring them to provide public service, participate in education or job training, and receive child care assistance. Upon completion of these requirements, they can transition to reduced benefits for two more years before being fully off the program.
Education and Responsibility
It is crucial to educate our children about the cost of having children and the financial responsibility of rearing them, regardless of whether they are born in or out of wedlock. The financial burden should not fall on taxpayers; it is the responsibility of the parents.
Additionally, why do liberals focus on abortion instead of promoting access to birth control, which is over 98% effective? Even in cases of unintended pregnancy, there are many couples who are willing to adopt. The promotion of abortion without considering other options does not make sense and exacerbates the financial burden on taxpayers.
In conclusion, we should not shame those who need government assistance and welfare programs. Instead, we should work towards systemic reforms and common sense solutions to ensure fairness and efficiency in these programs.