Helping Yourself?

A home health care worker, a McDonald’s cashier, a bank teller, and adjunct professor. They are all evidence of an improving economy and not among the steadily declining ranks of the unemployed.

Nearly three-quarters of the people helped by programs geared to the poor are members of a family headed by a worker. As a result, taxpayers are providing not only support to the poor but also, in effect, a huge subsidy for employers of low-wage workers.

One report estimates that state and federal governments spend more than $150 billion a year on four key antipoverty programs used by working families: Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, food stamps and the earned-income tax credit, which is specifically aimed at working families.

The low-wage business model practiced by many of the largest and most profitable employers in the country leaves many working families unable to afford the basics, and also imposes significant costs on the public as a whole.

Other states, as well as several cities, have moved to raise the minimum wage above $10, while local activists demand $15 an hour. It doesn't matter though.

The US economic system and its balance require exactly this arrangement. Poor people working these jobs and get public assistance. Certain services are high cost for no reason except balance. Example, healthcare premium can cost as much as 10K/per year in USA while other Countries cost 3k with better service.

So don't look down at no one, and no one would wish you fail. Just a thought.