Welfare to Work A New Response to Poverty Essay - 2630 Words

Professors Comments: This student has done an outstanding job of fulfilling the requirements of the assignment in his analysis of the Welfare to Work Program. Abstract: This study defines poverty, explains its causes and consequences on various systems, and traces our governmental response to this problem from the New Deal efforts to the present system of welfare. Drawing from recent literature to examine specifically the efficacy of TANF’s welfare to work (WtW) initiative, this writer focuses on the following: (1) on the target population, single mothers and children, and (2) on how this initiative is affecting both this group and the overall problem of poverty. Also included are a discussion of the historical and contemporary†¦show more content†¦The micro-level explanation places blame on the American family’s deterioration, a theme characterized by an increase in single mothers, teenage pregnancy, and a loss of the traditional male role (Egendorf, 1999). Next, the mid-level view focuses on inequality in the education system that perpetuates the cycle of poverty. Finally, the macro-level view looks at institut ions such as the economy and government, and specifically examines these entities’ effects on families and individuals, including inconsistency and discrimination in the job market (Coleman Cressey, 1999). With causes, then, come consequences, and poverty is no exception. According to Maurice Badon of Southeastern Louisiana University, â€Å"poverty is an insidious evil that robs families of the necessities we take for granted† (M. Badon, personal communication, November 19, 2001). For example, the poor are generally deprived of educational opportunities and, as a result of social stresses and a lack of adequate health care, are also highly susceptible to mental and physical illness. In addition, these groups tend to live in areas where crime is prevalent, creating another social stress with which to contend. Poverty is also tough on working parents because difficulties in finding adequate, affordable child care create consequent difficulties in maintaining employment (Coleman Cressey, 1999). Furthermore, as a result of their parents’ struggles,Show MoreRelatedThe Effects Of Welfare On The United States1455 Words   |  6 Pagesothers were wealthy. In the colonies of the new world, the church and the neighbors of those in poverty helped provide food and clothing, while also finding ways to improve their daily lives. These acts of kindness were an enormous help to the poor but sadly became less effective to those individuals as the population of the colonies increased along with the number of those in poverty. 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