The Worthy Poor VS The Unworthy Poor

In American Society, we have divided the poor into two classes, the "worthy" poor and the "unworthy" poor. The "worthy" poor are those we feel are worth being on state/federal aid and do not complain about assisting. The "unworthy" poor are those are receive aid as well but for some reason society feels they could take care of themselves and not depend on the aid.Society feels that those in the "unworthy" class are capable of providing for themselves financially. The reason being that most of the people who fall into this class are younger then the people who fall into the "worthy" class.

Many who fall into the "worthy class" are the elderly who are beyond working age, and find it hard to support their selves without some form of a fixed income.Although the majority of the "worthy" class is made up of the elderly, there are certain situations where the "worthy" class also includes some of a younger generation. Many of those come from the deeply impoverished corners of the United States Society. Many don't have a chance of surviving and living a better life then they are being given unless the someone, whether it be the government or a small organization, step up and find some way to show them the way to improve themselves.There are a few such organizations and federal programs in place already, but there are not nearly enough to tackle the large need that we have for the issue.

Many people feel that even though they fall into the "worthy" category, they are still not worth wasting time, resources, and money on to educate towards a better life. Many look down on those who need aid regardless of the situation and feel the same about them. They think that they are children, and as they grow they will learn and they will make something better of themselves. Unfortunately, this is not true. As they grow up in a poverished lifestyle they will learn from what they are surrounded with. They will grow up and realize it isn't so bad to be where they are, because they have not had anyone show them that there is a different way in life.

As American's, we are a large extended family. Everyone is supposed to look out for their family and protect them. I do not know why no one is protecting the children of these "unworthy" groups and showing them the way to better themselves and enrich their lives. It is going to take more then giving their family a few hundred dollars a month in food stamps and other aid to teach these children how to succeed in life. It is going to take educating them.

Not only do these children need to be shown the way, but their parents/parent as well need to be educated on how to enrich not only their lives but their children's lives as well. It is a two step process, and it is time as a society we step up and start making it a reality instead of a vision. With a little hard work I honestly believe that poverty in the US could be helped dramatically by just a few nice neighbors holding out their hands and showing that they are willing to assist.

By: Cheryl Shively