Is Welfare a Right?

[Aquila]

I think it's obvious. We'll always have the poor with us. And many of them are in desperate need of public assistance and without it they would perish or live a life of oppression. Therefore, I do not see how any civilized society wouldn't have a welfare system.

However, I do not believe that a federal welfare system is constitutional or a wise idea. Any welfare system should be on the state level and managed locally. In addition, I do believe that state governments should partner with private charities, businesses, and churches to provide a holistic system that doesn't just provide a "handout" but rather works to empower the individual in need with education, certification, or licenses to become a productive citizen in our society. I know a single mom who was on welfare for a few years. She was required to take classes or work a certain number of ours a week to receive full benefits. She chose classes. She became and RN and is making a good living for herself and her child. She's no longer dependent upon the system and she has been empowered without fear of economic or social oppression.

That's a welfare system that provides biblical "justice". The empowerment of those in need... not just a handout "welfare check".