Caring for the Poor: Who's Job Is It?

Publication Date: August 1998

Publisher:

Author(s): Diana Etindi; Amy Sherman

Research Area: Social conditions

Type: Report

Abstract:

For years, Americans have been debating the question of who is responsible to care for the poor. With passage of the 1996 welfare reform law, this issue catapulted to center stage. Welfare reform ended the AFDC entitlement program, raising new concerns over the wellbeing of needy children and families. What will happen to poor families who, despite working full time, can’t make ends meet? What will happen to dysfunctional individuals who, regardless of how federal programs operate, may fall through the cracks? Who is responsible for holding out the safety net? Who is there to help people shift from welfare to work?