George --

Amy Sherman and Henry Weinschenk argue for a way of looking at poverty and welfare programs that goes back to the 19th Century, at least, and that is trotted out from time to time to justify reducing funding for programs for the poor. It is very popular right now, and has been behind recent attacks on the poor and on government funding to help them. Unfortunately, it is based on mistaken assumptions about what government programs actually do and a false sense of superiority over those who are less fortunate.

Ms. Sherman dismisses government welfare programs as ineffective because they merely "throw money at poor people." Well, they don't throw much. In Charlottesville, the maximum TANF (formerly AFDC) benefit a single mother with 2 children can receive is $354 per month. She gets that much only because Charlottesville is grouped with the highest-cost localities in Virginia. In Albemarle County, the same family qualifies for a maximum of only $291 per month. I challenge Ms. Sherman and Mr. Weinschenk to propose a monthly budget for such a family. Even if you assume that food costs are paid entirely by food stamps (which they are not), this is a shamefully low amount of "support."

Mr. Weinschenk argues that the key to helping the poor is to work on their "spiritual core." But surely we could all benefit from that. Contrary to Mr. Weinschenk's suggestions, a short-term outlook and a dedication to making a fast buck without regard to consequences are hardly limited to the poor. Surely these qualities also describe our tobacco companies, many of our developers, and many of those who are pouring money into the stock market, among others.

I do not question the importance of faith-based institutions, or of a spiritual orientation, in dealing with the problems of the poor. Although Ms. Sherman seems to think otherwise, churches have been taking this approach for years. But government-funded assistance remains critically important for those who cannot support themselves.

Ed Wayland (electronic mail, March 30, 2000).