What does one mean when they use the word “welfare”?

Everyone I speak with has a different definition of welfare. This creates a problem because no one, except the person using the term, knows what is being talked about, unless the speaker tells the audience which specific government assistance program to which they are referring.

My definition of “welfare” is simple: any benefit an individual, couple, family, business, farmer or politician receives that is paid for with taxpayer money.

Using this definition, I dare say all individuals receive “welfare” at some time in their lives — directly or indirectly. The following are only a few of the government benefits a Maine resident may receive:

• Payment for a child’s birth.

• Payment for child care or pre-school.

• Foster care or adoption assistance.

• Student may get reduced or free milk, daily or summer lunches.

• College students may receive grant.s

• Individuals may receive subsidized housing, rent or property tax refunds, a homestead exemption, food, fuel, or weatherization assistance.

• Employees’ salaries may be partially subsidized or they may receive an Earned Income Credit.

• Employers may receive work opportunity tax credits or other subsidies for hiring certain individuals.

• Farmers and fruit growers may receive subsidies (recently, marijuana farmers were added to this list).

• Aged and disabled individuals may live in an assisted living facility, a boarding home, a nursing home.

• Politicians may receive money with which to run their campaigns.

I have no problem with anyone receiving a government benefit for which they are eligible. Note that I said eligible — not deserving and not entitled.

I do object to the bad-mouthing of “welfare” recipients when most of us has, is, or will receive assistance in one form or another before we die.

Rose Masure

Sidney