the welfare program?

Question

can you tell me how the change from the AFDC to TANF prevents/diminishes the likelihood for individuals to want " to grow up to be on welfare".

Answer 1

AFDC (Aid to Families with dependant children) was set up to help individuals with children. On it, parents could collect a welfare check and do nothing. They got more money for each child they had, which increased the size of the family.

When it changed to TANF (temporary Aid for Needy
Families), there was a lifetime maximum that a person could be on cash assistance. The lifetime max is 2 years (i believe). Each state administers these funds differently. In WIsconsin for example, you can only receive a check for not working if you are disabled or severely psychologically ill, or caring for a baby under 12 weeks. So, all able-bodied people are required to work 35 hours a week to receive their check (doing "volunteer type work"), or, get a job. The "assigned" 35 hour week job pays their welfare check ($612 a month). Obviously, if they work for a company they will make more than that, so, they get off of welfare very quickly. There are also funds so that full-time students can get a welfare payment, also, for parents that want to get a degree.

During the time that the parents are on welfare (under AFDC & TANF) they also qualify for medical assistance, food stamps, child care assistance, and, misc.

Answer 2

it doesn't