Reader offers opinion on welfare

To the Editor:

It is so sad that seniors -- disabled and Veterans -- always seem to be the first to take a hit on Medicare -- medical and other services needed just to make it.

Most who have worked their whole life that do not deserve to do without (food, medical care, meds, etc.), struggle and are left homeless.

Some die because they can't afford their meds, or doctor visits.

Then, we have people on welfare.

Don't get me wrong, I do feel that there are circumstances like families (due to the economy and unemployment issues) who now need assistance to get back on their feet.

But there are others collecting welfare, never gaining employment, having more children, having boyfriends or girlfriends living with them collecting additional money with new children -- free medical, food stamps, housing and more. Welfare benefits never lose grants, funding, etc.

I can name at least three families I know of on housing with spouses, boyfriends and children age appropriate to work and help out but don't.

In fact, they have other people move in (sometimes, collecting money for them to stay there -- they don't report it to housing, they just pocket the money).

To my surprise (because this is a violation of the Housing Authority agreement), if you report any of this to the Housing Authority, they call them to set up their visit, the people are not found and there is nothing done. The people move right back in so in reality, absolutely nothing is done.

Children learn from what they live, see and hear, which means that this is a cycle that continues with their life and son on.

Not that my opinion matters, but some of our economy issues stem from useless money spent.

Why not cap welfare to six months, since they offer job training, G.E.D. classes and babysitting.

Fast food -- babysitting (child care places) always hire, etc., but why if you don't have to.

Just one person's opinion.

Cindy Cumberton,

Brazil