Welfare Needs and Welfare Reform

As an advocate of the Welfare Back to Work program I have been involved in this cause for many years. I keep hearing about welfare reform and how 'soon' we will do away with those that are merely taking advantage of the system... but I have yet to see a dramatic change.

I used to be a child care provider and worked with welfare mothers while the state put them back to work. So, I have had a lot of experience with both sides of this program. In this article I will offer the quotes that are the norm for those unwilling to get off of welfare and quotes from those working hard to offer support to help this cause succeed and you can voice your own opinions about the issues and complications.

Welfare Recipients: 'Why Reform won't Work'

There are, what is called 'career recipients', who openly admit that collecting a check and benefits is a job to them. Then there are others that claim they are trying to get off of welfare but can't seem to find the right job to do so. These are the hardest people to guide through the transition. Below are the most heard complaints and comments that are voiced in regards to going back to work.

"Some people are meant to work and some aren't, I just don't think I have what it takes."

"Having kids is work, I get paid for getting pregnant and taking care of my kids. This is my job."

"Why should I work if I don't have to? I make a good living on child support and state benefits so why would I want to get some minimum wage job that won't even cover half of the expenses that I am used to?"

"I try to work but the jobs just don't satisfy me. I can't find a job I like"

Welfare Reform: Services Provided for All