None of my revisions copied over into this doc, so I'll email it when the revisions are completely finished.
D#10, HW#3, WP#3 Draft
Research Paper
Coralee Harding
14 November 2007
Poverty in America
There is a family living ten houses down from you. Do you know them? Last night they had to decide if they should buy groceries or put gas in their car. In fact, one out of every ten homes in the United States with this same problem (Triplett). On your way to work this morning you passed a man sitting on the street corner. Did you notice him? There was a 70% chance he was severely mentally handicapped, a United States veteran, or had children hiding in the shade behind the bushes (Triplett). While walking through the parking lot, finding your way into the store, you passed a parked car. That was somebody's home. The woman inside had no family or friends, no address to put on her welfare application. This woman was denied government aid because of it. Although the government of the United States of America provides welfare for their citizens suffering from poverty, it is not enough. What can Americans do to help solve this nation-wide problem, and how can the government provide more efficient, legitimate aid to people living in poverty?
Since 1935 the government has been trying to aid people suffering from poverty. They have tried several methods and passed several laws to help solve this issue. Some of the first attempts to give aid included poorhouses and orphanages. During this period of time, people would not accept the governments help unless they were extremely desperate. People who allowed the government's help, were often shunned and rejected by their friends and neighbors. A few years after the poorhouses opened, the "mother's pension" was put into act which gave money to single mothers to allow them to stay at home and raise their children. This did not include mothers who were divorced or minorities. In 1935 the Social Security Act was established and the welfare of the people was put into the hands of the federal government. These new laws established old-age pensions and unemployment insurance but did not include farm workers or servants. Since then, the divorce rate skyrocketed and single mothers with children were able to receive government aid. In 1996 welfare control was mostly given back to the states, and no longer a federal responsibility (Constitutional Rights Foundation).
Poverty is something that can happen to anyone. Nobody expects or wants to live life in poverty, and yet it effects over 2 million Americans per year. Poverty is an ongoing issue in America. Evidence shows that 10% of families living in this nation struggle with poverty (Triplett). Chances are that you have a friend, coworker, or relative living in poverty. These people may not appear to be struggling, but behind closed doors they suffer. For families who have a working parent, it is very hard for them to qualify for government aid. These families are below the average income of $52, 704, but above the poverty average of $18, 400 If these families are lucky enough to qualify for a government food assistance program, such as food stamps, the average amount of redeemable food stamps is $2.34 per day, per person (Library Index). It is extremely difficult to eat three healthy, well balanced meals for $7.02 a day.
The majority of people suffering from poverty are people who deserve government aid the most. 40% of people living in poverty are families, 30% are substance abusers, 23% are severely mentally ill, and 10% are veterans. 17% of those in poverty are employed (Triplett). Most families living in poverty are headed by a single mother. Studies show that singles mothers are most likely to live in poverty for long periods of time(Triplett). Substance abuse is a huge issue in America, especially among teenagers. The teens who are addicted to drugs or alcohol are the ones you will most likely see living in the streets as adults. Severely mentally ill people usually have no control over their financial situation. These people are often overlooked as people in need of aid. Not every mentally ill person has somebody to look after them, and are forced to live a confused life on the streets. Veterans deserve so much more than what they are given by the government. They deserve to be respected and admired, not viewed as just another homeless person.
One major downfall of the government's welfare program is it's capability to cause dependancy. "75 percent of all welfare recipients remain on the program five years or longer." (LeadershipU) Some critics believe if we cut off all government aid from the people, it will force those in poverty to become more self reliant. Welfare and food stamps are meant for people to use in emergency situations, and to help them get back on their feet. Yet many people on welfare are abusing their benefits. "A study by the Congressional Budget Office showed that long periods of welfare dependency can actually reduce a child’s IQ by as much as 20 percent." (LeadershipU). Children living in poverty, and who rely on government welfare, often feel that they will live in the same condition when they are adults and do not strive to become better. If there were no welfare programs for people living in poverty, some believe there would be less people allowing themselves to suffer in poverty and relying on the government's aid. This is why the government must improve the welfare program. They must create a program that is for people who really need assistance, and only for a short period of time in most circumstances.
After nearly 100 years of attempting to aid the poor, the government has yet to succeed. The number of people receiving welfare has gone down over the years, but the restrictions to receive aid has gone up. Major changes must be made in the way that the government handles poverty. There are two groups of people who have the ultimate power to change the life of those suffering. The United States government and American voters. The government can construct laws, and voters have the ability to pass or petition them. Americans also have the ability to aid on a more personal level.
To lower the number of people living in poverty, there must be changes made within the government. There needs to be more easily attainable aid for people who need and deserve it. Instead of increasing the restrictions to receive aid, the restrictions should be lowered and monitored more carefully. Government aid should not be a permanent crutch for people to lean on, but a short-term support system for people in poverty.
In the welfare programs currently, people can apply for welfare or food stamps and if they meet the right qualifications, they receive their stamps and/or money once a month. Instead of giving away money or food redeemable coupons, the government can provide short-term jobs. This will force people to earn their money and in turn they will value it more. Special occupations can be set aside for people in poverty such as working in public libraries, post offices, picking up trash on the streets, roadway construction, and other various government jobs. By doing this, the government will be receiving a service for the money that they are now giving out. Employers can also volunteer simple employment positions and allow the government to fill those positions with people struggling with poverty. This will allow families to live better lives. One issue that could arise from this is that many people in poverty do not own vehicles or have transportation to get to and from work. To solve this issue the government could provide a short-term bus pass that is usable until they receive their first paycheck.
Changes also need to be made to accommodate the homeless. Right now the government requires that you provide an address on the welfare application. If a homeless person does not have a family member or a friends address that they can provide, they are not eligible to receive government aid. This ensures that the homeless will stay homeless and does not help them in any way. Instead of receiving their money or food stamps by mail, they can be held at the post office for the person to pick up, or at a local government office.
The government needs to require schools to educate students on the widespread issue of poverty. This will help children to understand the negative effects of poverty. They can also be taught how to receive long-lasting jobs so they will lower their chances of falling into poverty. This will also teach children how to get out of poverty if they are ever involved in it. By doing this, it will lower the number of people living in poverty in the future by the thousands.
In Arizona there is a large facility organized by a church called Randolph. It is similar to an assisted living facility for the elderly, but it is specifically for the severely mentally disabled. There are several small cabin-like homes where four to five mentally ill people occupy each one. There are trained assistants assigned to each of these homes. Several church groups and other organizations come and visit these people and volunteer during meals and activities. This facility is being forced to close due to lack of funding. The government is able to help fund this program and help keep it open, essentially keeping more mentally disabled people out of poverty, but they do not. It would also be beneficial if the government would open more facilities like this one to aid the mentally disabled.
We, as Americans, are given the ability to vote. Several people, however, do not take advantage of it. Unlike several countries, Americans have the power to pass or petition laws. By carefully choosing the laws that are passed, Americans can make the difference in the lives of others, in their own lives, and the lives of those in poverty. When people do not vote, they are placing their future in the hands of those that do vote, who may have a different opinion.
Another way that Americans can get involved in helping aid people in poverty is by volunteering. There is a charity center in Mesa, Arizona called the Humanitarian Organization. Everybody who works there is an unpaid, and anybody is welcome to volunteer. They iron fabric, cut it into squares, design, and then sew quilts for adults and children who cannot afford them. Nobody working there is a professional quilt maker, but if a person is freezing, they don't care what the quilt looks like, as long as it keeps them warm and alive. They recently started producing hand-knit hats for babies. Since they started delivering them, the babies were able to keep a normal body temperature, and their death rate has decreased (Markland A4). There are also canneries that produce and can food for the homeless, as well as food banks and other charitable organizations that are always in need of volunteers. If a person does not have time to help by volunteering, monetary donations are accepted to all of these places.
Poverty is an issue that may never be completely solved. There are major changes that need to be made by the government, and by people living in poverty for it to be fixed. Improvements need to be made to the welfare program, and new, more helpful programs need to be established. Although the United States government has made changes and reforms to welfare, they have not been very effective. There are always people who need government aid who get left out. To solve this problem it takes the government to create the laws, and the American people to put them into effect.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
D#12, HW#1, Reading Reflection
Everything's an Argument, chapter 12 is about how to establish style in your writing. Sentence structure is important to style and the sentences effectiveness. It's also important to have correct punctuation (duh). Also pay attention to figurative language, such as using analogies, tropes, understatements.
In the Bedford Researcher, chapter 15 it focuses on revising and editing. It advises you to save multiple copies of your document with different revisions, and pay special attention to accuracy, consistency, tone and style, and of course grammar. To edit your document ask for other's opinions, I like this strategy cause they are likely to catch things you haven't noticed. Also it's important to check your facts and ensure their accuracy.
Chapter 16 is about design. When I hear design I think about magazines or something, not a research paper. I didn't realize you have to even focus on the structure of it. So this chapter was helpful. Principles of design for a paper include balance, emphasis, placement, repetition, and consistency. Different fonts, line spacing, and alignment are all things that need to be considered. Also colors, shading, and borders, but I don't think that fits in with a college research paper standard. It also talks about using and placing illustrations.
In the Bedford Researcher, chapter 15 it focuses on revising and editing. It advises you to save multiple copies of your document with different revisions, and pay special attention to accuracy, consistency, tone and style, and of course grammar. To edit your document ask for other's opinions, I like this strategy cause they are likely to catch things you haven't noticed. Also it's important to check your facts and ensure their accuracy.
Chapter 16 is about design. When I hear design I think about magazines or something, not a research paper. I didn't realize you have to even focus on the structure of it. So this chapter was helpful. Principles of design for a paper include balance, emphasis, placement, repetition, and consistency. Different fonts, line spacing, and alignment are all things that need to be considered. Also colors, shading, and borders, but I don't think that fits in with a college research paper standard. It also talks about using and placing illustrations.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
D#11 HW#3, Deadline Reflection
I am sooo glad this weeks homework was short. Writing the introductions helped me kinda get an idea of how I want to change my introduction to work better. I wasn't quite sure how I wanted to start my paper, and now I know! Writing the conclusions were also helpful and gave me a better idea of how to sum up my thoughts. I commented on:
http://teufelheunden.blogspot.com/ D11HW2 Intros and Conclusions
http://winterjustin88.blogspot.com/ Deadline #11 HW #2 2x Introductions and Conclusions
http://ktmdude88.blogspot.com/ D#11, HW#2, Draft Intro x2
http://sparizek-armywife.blogspot.com/ D11HW3 Deadline Reflection
http://teufelheunden.blogspot.com/ D11HW2 Intros and Conclusions
http://winterjustin88.blogspot.com/ Deadline #11 HW #2 2x Introductions and Conclusions
http://ktmdude88.blogspot.com/ D#11, HW#2, Draft Intro x2
http://sparizek-armywife.blogspot.com/ D11HW3 Deadline Reflection
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
D#11 HW#2, Intro's and Conclusions
TELL A STORY, Introduction #1
Christine is 38 years old. She lives in 500 square foot apartment by herself. Her husband recently moved out, leaving her with no income and no way to pay her bills. Christine was born disabled and slightly mentally handicapped. Last night she got a notice on her door from her land lord saying he had not received rent money and that she would need to move out immediately. Christine's parents did not let her stay with them. The next day she packed what she could carry on her wheelchair and left the rest behind. She now is living on the streets, finding food wherever she can, and starving when she can't. Why wasn't the government there to step in before she lost her apartment and everything in it? Although the government of the United States provides welfare for their citizens suffering from poverty, what more can be done to aid those in need.
HISTORICAL ACCOUNT, Introduction #2
Poverty is an ongoing issue in America. Since 1935 the government has been trying to aid people suffering from poverty. They have tried several methods and passed several laws to help solve this issue. Some of the first attempts to give aid included poorhouses and orphanages. During this period of time, people would not accept the governments help unless they were extremely desperate. People who allowed the government's help, were often shunned and rejected by their friends and neighbors. A few years after the poorhouses opened, the "mother's pension" was put into act which gave money to single mothers to allow them to stay at home and raise their children. This did not include mothers who were divorced or minorities. In 1935 the Social Security Act was established and the welfare of the people was put into the hands of the federal government. These new laws established old-age pensions and unemployment insurance but did not include farm workers or servants. Since then, the divorce rate skyrocketed and single mothers with children were able to receive government aid. In 1996 welfare control was mostly given back to the states, and no longer a federal responsibility (Constitutional Rights Foundation). The government has made several attempts to aid people suffering in poverty, but nothing they have done has been good enough. What more can the United States government do to effectively aid those in poverty?
SUMMARIZE THE ARGUMENT, Conclusion #1
There are several changes that the American government can make to better their welfare system, as well as new programs to establish. Some changes necessary would include revising the welfare system and giving aid to those who need it most with less restrictions, and educating children in schools about how to avoid poverty. However, it takes American citizens to voice their opinion and let the government know they want those changes and improvements to be made. With the government and common people working together, poverty can be improved immensely.
CLOSE WITH THE STORY, Conclusion #2
Christine is 38 years old. Her husband recently left her and she had no income to pay her bills. Christine was born disabled and slightly mentally handicapped. When she got the notice on her door that she must move out by the next day, she remembered what she had learned in high school. That the government was something she could rely on during the times she needed it. She called the number in the phone book and she was provided with a small loan. Just enough to pay her rent money. She was also offered a month-long job at the library. This gave her the time she needed to find a full-time job, and the money to pay back her loan. Voice your opinion and let the government know you want your tax money going to people who need help. With the cooperation of the government and American voters, people living in poverty can be helped.
Christine is 38 years old. She lives in 500 square foot apartment by herself. Her husband recently moved out, leaving her with no income and no way to pay her bills. Christine was born disabled and slightly mentally handicapped. Last night she got a notice on her door from her land lord saying he had not received rent money and that she would need to move out immediately. Christine's parents did not let her stay with them. The next day she packed what she could carry on her wheelchair and left the rest behind. She now is living on the streets, finding food wherever she can, and starving when she can't. Why wasn't the government there to step in before she lost her apartment and everything in it? Although the government of the United States provides welfare for their citizens suffering from poverty, what more can be done to aid those in need.
HISTORICAL ACCOUNT, Introduction #2
Poverty is an ongoing issue in America. Since 1935 the government has been trying to aid people suffering from poverty. They have tried several methods and passed several laws to help solve this issue. Some of the first attempts to give aid included poorhouses and orphanages. During this period of time, people would not accept the governments help unless they were extremely desperate. People who allowed the government's help, were often shunned and rejected by their friends and neighbors. A few years after the poorhouses opened, the "mother's pension" was put into act which gave money to single mothers to allow them to stay at home and raise their children. This did not include mothers who were divorced or minorities. In 1935 the Social Security Act was established and the welfare of the people was put into the hands of the federal government. These new laws established old-age pensions and unemployment insurance but did not include farm workers or servants. Since then, the divorce rate skyrocketed and single mothers with children were able to receive government aid. In 1996 welfare control was mostly given back to the states, and no longer a federal responsibility (Constitutional Rights Foundation). The government has made several attempts to aid people suffering in poverty, but nothing they have done has been good enough. What more can the United States government do to effectively aid those in poverty?
SUMMARIZE THE ARGUMENT, Conclusion #1
There are several changes that the American government can make to better their welfare system, as well as new programs to establish. Some changes necessary would include revising the welfare system and giving aid to those who need it most with less restrictions, and educating children in schools about how to avoid poverty. However, it takes American citizens to voice their opinion and let the government know they want those changes and improvements to be made. With the government and common people working together, poverty can be improved immensely.
CLOSE WITH THE STORY, Conclusion #2
Christine is 38 years old. Her husband recently left her and she had no income to pay her bills. Christine was born disabled and slightly mentally handicapped. When she got the notice on her door that she must move out by the next day, she remembered what she had learned in high school. That the government was something she could rely on during the times she needed it. She called the number in the phone book and she was provided with a small loan. Just enough to pay her rent money. She was also offered a month-long job at the library. This gave her the time she needed to find a full-time job, and the money to pay back her loan. Voice your opinion and let the government know you want your tax money going to people who need help. With the cooperation of the government and American voters, people living in poverty can be helped.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
D#11 HW#1, Reading Reflection
In Everything's an Argument chapter 18 it talks about how to avoid plagiarizing and integrity. To avoid plagiarism you must credit your source and cite them. It's important to cite anything that you didn't think of yourself, even if it's something that you heard from a friend, or random person.
In The Bedford Researcher chapter 12 is about drafting. It talks about developing a thesis, utilizing an outline, introductions, supporting paragraphs, organization, readability, conclusions, and documenting sources. One area that will be useful to me is the organizing section.
Chapter 13 is about the different ways you can use sources in your paper. It also shows you how to correctly quote a source in MLA format. It also gives you a list of attributions you can use other than "said." Some ways to use a source is by using quotations, paraphrasing, and summarizing.
Chapter 14 is about avoiding plagiarism. First it defines what plagiarism is and then tells you to cite sources properly so the right person is getting the right credit for their words.
Chapter 17 is about documentation systems. On page 239 it shows you different styles of documenting, and how they are used. In this class we use MLA, which is all i've ever been taught. (chapter 18 is about how to use MLA format correctly)
The first website is about how to correctly use sources and cite them in your paper.
The second website relocated me to the Bedford Researcher homepage where you can access tutorials and other useful info. The third website didn't work for me. The last website is about how to create a work cited.
In The Bedford Researcher chapter 12 is about drafting. It talks about developing a thesis, utilizing an outline, introductions, supporting paragraphs, organization, readability, conclusions, and documenting sources. One area that will be useful to me is the organizing section.
Chapter 13 is about the different ways you can use sources in your paper. It also shows you how to correctly quote a source in MLA format. It also gives you a list of attributions you can use other than "said." Some ways to use a source is by using quotations, paraphrasing, and summarizing.
Chapter 14 is about avoiding plagiarism. First it defines what plagiarism is and then tells you to cite sources properly so the right person is getting the right credit for their words.
Chapter 17 is about documentation systems. On page 239 it shows you different styles of documenting, and how they are used. In this class we use MLA, which is all i've ever been taught. (chapter 18 is about how to use MLA format correctly)
The first website is about how to correctly use sources and cite them in your paper.
The second website relocated me to the Bedford Researcher homepage where you can access tutorials and other useful info. The third website didn't work for me. The last website is about how to create a work cited.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
D#10, HW#3, WP#3 Draft
D#10, HW#3, WP#3 Draft
Research Paper
Coralee Harding
30 October 2007
There is a family living ten houses down from you. Do you know them? Last night they had to decide if they should buy groceries or put gas in their car. In fact, one out of every ten homes in the United States struggle with this same problem (Triplett). On your way to work this morning you passed a man sitting on the street corner. Did you notice him? There was a 70% chance he was severely mentally handicapped, a United States veteran, or had children hiding in the shade behind the bushes (Triplett). While walking through the parking lot, finding your way into the store, you passed a parked car. That was somebody's home. The woman inside had no family or friends, no address to put on her welfare application. This woman was denied government aid because of it. Although the government of the United States of America provides welfare for their citizens suffering from poverty, it is not enough. What can Americans do to help solve this nation-wide problem, and how can the government provide more efficient, legitimate aid to people living in poverty?
Poverty is something that can happen to anyone. Nobody expects or wants to live life in poverty, and yet it effects over 2 million Americans per year. Poverty is an ongoing issue in America. Since 1935 the government has been trying to aid people suffering from poverty. They have tried several methods and passed several laws to help solve this issue. Some of the first attempts to give aid included poorhouses and orphanages. During this period of time, people would not accept the governments help unless they were extremely desperate. People who allowed the government's help, were often shunned and rejected by their friends and neighbors. A few years after the poorhouses opened, the "mother's pension" was put into act which gave money to single mothers to allow them to stay at home and raise their children. This did not include mothers who were divorced or minorities. In 1935 the Social Security Act was established and the welfare of the people was put into the hands of the federal government. These new laws established old-age pensions and unemployment insurance but did not include farm workers or servants. Since then, the divorce rate skyrocketed and single mothers with children were able to receive government aid. In 1996 welfare control was mostly given back to the states, and no longer a federal responsibility (Constitutional Rights Foundation).
Evidence shows that 10% of families living in this nation struggle with poverty (Triplett). Chances are that you have a friend, coworker, or relative living in poverty. These people may not appear to be struggling, but behind closed doors they suffer. For families who have a working parent, it is very hard for them to qualify for government aid. These families are below the average income of $52, 704, but above the poverty average of $18, 400 If these families are lucky enough to qualify for a government food assistance program, such as food stamps, the average amount of redeemable food stamps is $2.34 per day, per person (Library Index). It is extremely difficult to eat three healthy, well balanced meals for $7.02 a day.
The majority of people suffering from poverty are people who deserve government aid the most. 40% of people living in poverty are families, 30% are substance abusers, 23% are severely mentally ill, and 10% are veterans. 17% of those in poverty are employed (Triplett). Most families living in poverty are headed by a single mother. Studies show that singles mothers are most likely to live in poverty for long periods of time(Triplett). Substance abuse is a huge issue in America, especially among teenagers. The teens who are addicted to drugs or alcohol are the ones you will most likely see living in the streets as adults. Severely mentally ill people usually have no control over their financial situation. These people are often overlooked as people in need of aid. Not every mentally ill person has somebody to look after them, and are forced to live a confused life on the streets. Veterans deserve so much more than what they are given by the government. They deserve to be respected and admired, not viewed as just another homeless person.
One major downfall of welfare is it's capability to cause dependency. "75 percent of all welfare recipients remain on the program five years or longer." (LeadershipU) Welfare and food stamps are meant for people to use in emergency situations, and to help them get back on their feet. Yet many people on welfare are abusing their benefits. "A study by the Congressional Budget Office showed that long periods of welfare dependency can actually reduce a child’s IQ by as much as 20 percent." (LeadershipU). Children living in poverty, and who rely on government welfare, often feel that they will live in the same condition when they are adults and do not strive to become better.
After nearly 100 years of attempting to aid the poor, the government has yet to succeed. The number of people receiving welfare has gone down over the years, but the restrictions to receive aid has gone up. Major changes must be made in the way that the government handles poverty. There are two groups of people who have the ultimate power to change the life of those suffering. The United States government and American voters. The government can construct laws, and voters have the ability to pass or petition them. Americans also have the ability to aid on a more personal level.
To lower the number of people living in poverty, there must be changes made within the government. There needs to be more easily attainable aid for people who need and deserve it. Instead of increasing the restrictions to receive aid, the restrictions should be lowered and monitored more carefully. Government aid should not be a permanent crutch for people to lean on, but a short-term support system for people in poverty.
In the welfare programs currently, people can apply for welfare or food stamps and if they meet the right qualifications, they receive their stamps and/or money once a month. Instead of giving away money or food redeemable coupons, the government can provide short-term jobs. This will force people to earn their money and in turn they will value it more. Special occupations can be set aside for people in poverty such as working in public libraries, post offices, picking up trash on the streets, roadway construction, and other various government jobs. Employers can also volunteer simple employment positions and allow the government to fill those positions with people living in poverty. This will allow families to live better lives. One issue that could arise from this is that many people in poverty do not own vehicles or have transportation to get to and from work. To solve this issue the government could provide a short-term bus pass that will last until they receive their first paycheck.
Changes also need to be made to accommodate the homeless. Right now the government requires that you provide an address on the welfare application. If a homeless person does not have a family member or a friends address that they can provide, they are not eligible to receive government aid. This ensures that the homeless will stay homeless and does not help them in any way. Instead of receiving their money or food stamps by mail, they can be held at the post office for the person to pick up, or at a local government office.
The government can require schools to educate students on the widespread issue of poverty. This will help children to understand the negative effects of poverty. They can also be taught how to receive good jobs so they will lower their chances of falling into poverty. This will also teach children how to get out of poverty if they are ever involved in it. By doing this, it will lower the number of people living in poverty in the future by the thousands.
In Arizona there is a large facility organized by the LDS church called Randolph. It is similar to an assisted living facility for the elderly, but it is specifically for the severely mentally disabled. There are several small cabin-like homes where four to five mentally ill people occupy each one. There are trained assistants assigned to each of these homes. Several church groups and other organizations come and visit these people and volunteer during meals and activities. This facility is being forced to close due to lack of funding. The government is able to help fund this program and help keep it open, essentially keeping more mentally disabled people out of poverty. But they do not. It would also be beneficial if the government would open more facilities like this one to aid the mentally disabled.
We, as Americans, are given the ability to vote. Several people, however, do not take advantage of it. Unlike several countries, Americans have the power to pass or petition laws. By carefully choosing the laws that are passed, Americans can make the difference in the lives of others, in their own lives, and the lives of those in poverty. When people do not vote, they are placing their future in the hands of those that do vote, who may have a different opinion.
Another way that Americans can get involved in helping aid people in poverty is by volunteering. There is a charity center in Mesa, Arizona called the Humanitarian Organization. Everybody who works there is an unpaid, and anybody is welcome to volunteer. They iron fabric, cut it into squares, design, and then sew quilts for adults and children who cannot afford them. Nobody working there is a professional quilt maker, but if a person is freezing, they don't care what the quilt looks like, as long as it keeps them warm and alive. They recently started producing hand-knit hats for babies. Since they started delivering them, the babies were able to keep a normal body temperature, and their death rate has decreased. There are also canneries that produce and can food for the homeless, as well as food banks and other charitable organizations that are always in need of volunteers. If a person does not have time to help by volunteering, monetary donations are accepted to all of these places.
Poverty is an issue that may never be completely solved. There are major changes that need to be made by the government, and by people living in poverty for it to be fixed. Improvements need to be made to the welfare program, and new, more helpful programs need to be established. Although the United States government has made changes and reforms to welfare, they have not been very effective. There are always people who need government aid who get left out. To solve this problem it takes the government to create the laws, and the American people to put them into effect.
Research Paper
Coralee Harding
30 October 2007
There is a family living ten houses down from you. Do you know them? Last night they had to decide if they should buy groceries or put gas in their car. In fact, one out of every ten homes in the United States struggle with this same problem (Triplett). On your way to work this morning you passed a man sitting on the street corner. Did you notice him? There was a 70% chance he was severely mentally handicapped, a United States veteran, or had children hiding in the shade behind the bushes (Triplett). While walking through the parking lot, finding your way into the store, you passed a parked car. That was somebody's home. The woman inside had no family or friends, no address to put on her welfare application. This woman was denied government aid because of it. Although the government of the United States of America provides welfare for their citizens suffering from poverty, it is not enough. What can Americans do to help solve this nation-wide problem, and how can the government provide more efficient, legitimate aid to people living in poverty?
Poverty is something that can happen to anyone. Nobody expects or wants to live life in poverty, and yet it effects over 2 million Americans per year. Poverty is an ongoing issue in America. Since 1935 the government has been trying to aid people suffering from poverty. They have tried several methods and passed several laws to help solve this issue. Some of the first attempts to give aid included poorhouses and orphanages. During this period of time, people would not accept the governments help unless they were extremely desperate. People who allowed the government's help, were often shunned and rejected by their friends and neighbors. A few years after the poorhouses opened, the "mother's pension" was put into act which gave money to single mothers to allow them to stay at home and raise their children. This did not include mothers who were divorced or minorities. In 1935 the Social Security Act was established and the welfare of the people was put into the hands of the federal government. These new laws established old-age pensions and unemployment insurance but did not include farm workers or servants. Since then, the divorce rate skyrocketed and single mothers with children were able to receive government aid. In 1996 welfare control was mostly given back to the states, and no longer a federal responsibility (Constitutional Rights Foundation).
Evidence shows that 10% of families living in this nation struggle with poverty (Triplett). Chances are that you have a friend, coworker, or relative living in poverty. These people may not appear to be struggling, but behind closed doors they suffer. For families who have a working parent, it is very hard for them to qualify for government aid. These families are below the average income of $52, 704, but above the poverty average of $18, 400 If these families are lucky enough to qualify for a government food assistance program, such as food stamps, the average amount of redeemable food stamps is $2.34 per day, per person (Library Index). It is extremely difficult to eat three healthy, well balanced meals for $7.02 a day.
The majority of people suffering from poverty are people who deserve government aid the most. 40% of people living in poverty are families, 30% are substance abusers, 23% are severely mentally ill, and 10% are veterans. 17% of those in poverty are employed (Triplett). Most families living in poverty are headed by a single mother. Studies show that singles mothers are most likely to live in poverty for long periods of time(Triplett). Substance abuse is a huge issue in America, especially among teenagers. The teens who are addicted to drugs or alcohol are the ones you will most likely see living in the streets as adults. Severely mentally ill people usually have no control over their financial situation. These people are often overlooked as people in need of aid. Not every mentally ill person has somebody to look after them, and are forced to live a confused life on the streets. Veterans deserve so much more than what they are given by the government. They deserve to be respected and admired, not viewed as just another homeless person.
One major downfall of welfare is it's capability to cause dependency. "75 percent of all welfare recipients remain on the program five years or longer." (LeadershipU) Welfare and food stamps are meant for people to use in emergency situations, and to help them get back on their feet. Yet many people on welfare are abusing their benefits. "A study by the Congressional Budget Office showed that long periods of welfare dependency can actually reduce a child’s IQ by as much as 20 percent." (LeadershipU). Children living in poverty, and who rely on government welfare, often feel that they will live in the same condition when they are adults and do not strive to become better.
After nearly 100 years of attempting to aid the poor, the government has yet to succeed. The number of people receiving welfare has gone down over the years, but the restrictions to receive aid has gone up. Major changes must be made in the way that the government handles poverty. There are two groups of people who have the ultimate power to change the life of those suffering. The United States government and American voters. The government can construct laws, and voters have the ability to pass or petition them. Americans also have the ability to aid on a more personal level.
To lower the number of people living in poverty, there must be changes made within the government. There needs to be more easily attainable aid for people who need and deserve it. Instead of increasing the restrictions to receive aid, the restrictions should be lowered and monitored more carefully. Government aid should not be a permanent crutch for people to lean on, but a short-term support system for people in poverty.
In the welfare programs currently, people can apply for welfare or food stamps and if they meet the right qualifications, they receive their stamps and/or money once a month. Instead of giving away money or food redeemable coupons, the government can provide short-term jobs. This will force people to earn their money and in turn they will value it more. Special occupations can be set aside for people in poverty such as working in public libraries, post offices, picking up trash on the streets, roadway construction, and other various government jobs. Employers can also volunteer simple employment positions and allow the government to fill those positions with people living in poverty. This will allow families to live better lives. One issue that could arise from this is that many people in poverty do not own vehicles or have transportation to get to and from work. To solve this issue the government could provide a short-term bus pass that will last until they receive their first paycheck.
Changes also need to be made to accommodate the homeless. Right now the government requires that you provide an address on the welfare application. If a homeless person does not have a family member or a friends address that they can provide, they are not eligible to receive government aid. This ensures that the homeless will stay homeless and does not help them in any way. Instead of receiving their money or food stamps by mail, they can be held at the post office for the person to pick up, or at a local government office.
The government can require schools to educate students on the widespread issue of poverty. This will help children to understand the negative effects of poverty. They can also be taught how to receive good jobs so they will lower their chances of falling into poverty. This will also teach children how to get out of poverty if they are ever involved in it. By doing this, it will lower the number of people living in poverty in the future by the thousands.
In Arizona there is a large facility organized by the LDS church called Randolph. It is similar to an assisted living facility for the elderly, but it is specifically for the severely mentally disabled. There are several small cabin-like homes where four to five mentally ill people occupy each one. There are trained assistants assigned to each of these homes. Several church groups and other organizations come and visit these people and volunteer during meals and activities. This facility is being forced to close due to lack of funding. The government is able to help fund this program and help keep it open, essentially keeping more mentally disabled people out of poverty. But they do not. It would also be beneficial if the government would open more facilities like this one to aid the mentally disabled.
We, as Americans, are given the ability to vote. Several people, however, do not take advantage of it. Unlike several countries, Americans have the power to pass or petition laws. By carefully choosing the laws that are passed, Americans can make the difference in the lives of others, in their own lives, and the lives of those in poverty. When people do not vote, they are placing their future in the hands of those that do vote, who may have a different opinion.
Another way that Americans can get involved in helping aid people in poverty is by volunteering. There is a charity center in Mesa, Arizona called the Humanitarian Organization. Everybody who works there is an unpaid, and anybody is welcome to volunteer. They iron fabric, cut it into squares, design, and then sew quilts for adults and children who cannot afford them. Nobody working there is a professional quilt maker, but if a person is freezing, they don't care what the quilt looks like, as long as it keeps them warm and alive. They recently started producing hand-knit hats for babies. Since they started delivering them, the babies were able to keep a normal body temperature, and their death rate has decreased. There are also canneries that produce and can food for the homeless, as well as food banks and other charitable organizations that are always in need of volunteers. If a person does not have time to help by volunteering, monetary donations are accepted to all of these places.
Poverty is an issue that may never be completely solved. There are major changes that need to be made by the government, and by people living in poverty for it to be fixed. Improvements need to be made to the welfare program, and new, more helpful programs need to be established. Although the United States government has made changes and reforms to welfare, they have not been very effective. There are always people who need government aid who get left out. To solve this problem it takes the government to create the laws, and the American people to put them into effect.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
D#9, HW#7, Deadline Reflection
This weeks homework was extremely helpful to WP#3. It made me think about exactly what I wanted to write about in my paper. I also found out that almost all of my sources cover pro and cons of aiding poverty, which I didn't realize until I started writing my outline. The con sections will be very useful when writing WP#3. (Most of the con information is near the end of the articles so I didn't see it the first time through). Seeing the one other person's outline (haha) made me see that maybe i'm not too far off of what we were supposed to do! I commented on:
http://camlunamcc.blogspot.com/ Deadline #9, HW #1 Reading Reflection
http://laceyariz.blogspot.com/ D#9,HW#4 Toulmin outline
http://ktmdude88.blogspot.com/ D#9, HW#, WP#2 Final
http://sparizek-armywife.blogspot.com/ D9HW6 Outline info
http://camlunamcc.blogspot.com/ Deadline #9, HW #1 Reading Reflection
http://laceyariz.blogspot.com/ D#9,HW#4 Toulmin outline
http://ktmdude88.blogspot.com/ D#9, HW#, WP#2 Final
http://sparizek-armywife.blogspot.com/ D9HW6 Outline info
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