The welfare system in the United States is designed to help families and individuals who are in need of financial assistance. The US welfare program started in the 1930’s during the Great Depression. The history of the system is very interesting. For the first sixty one years of the program it was run by the government. During this time there were a lot of loop holes that allowed people to take advantage fo the situation. However in 1996, under the direction of President, Bill Clinton, the program was pushed back to the states.

Once the control of the system was pushed back to the states, a program called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) was created. The purpose of the program is to give grant money to each state so they can run their own welfare program. Since each state has a different welfare program, the requirements also differ.

In order get on the welfare system, there are several requirements that most people must meet. To begin with you need to be 21 years-old and must find work within two years of applying for the program. For single parents, they must work at least 30 hours per week and a couple must work between 35 and 55 hours per work.

To begin the process of getting on the welfare system, a person must first apply for the aid. Once the application is submitted a case worked will be assigned and all the required documents must be presented before a meeting can happen. Some of the required documents are proof of income, state ID or driver’s license, utility bills and proof of residency. After all the documentation is verified the case worker will s tart the process of helping a family or individual obtain welfare benefits.

The US Welfare system has become a system that is difficult to get into if you really do not need the benefits. With the proper documentation and living status, a person can receive the benefits they need to continue living in the United States.

There is a lot of mixed feelings people have about welfare. Some feel it prevents people from becoming self-sufficient. Others feel it is not enough assistance to help people get to a new level of life. In this economy, many are struggling so this creates additional tension. Social workers are helpful in assisting people to learn how to navigate the system and get help for their families.

Learn more about Social Work Programs and Scholarships For Minority Women.