How Gov’t Programs Don’t Help You

September 07, 2009 | Comments 1

Kollel families usually cannot provide entirely for their needs. So they rely on various forms of support, either from their parents, or the government.

The US government, as they get more and more deeply sunk in debt, feels that those living in poverty will dig themselves out of it if given the chance. Of course, that almost never happens.

However, one “benefit” of all these programs, such as Medicaid, Section 8, Pell grants, Food Stamps, and the many others, is that many kollel students are able to use these programs to get by while in kollel, which they might not have been able to do so otherwise.

It is estimated that a family of 4 children can get upwards of $35,000 a year in beneifts. However, there is a major expense that most frum homes come across, which none of these programs help provide for. Paying for your children is an expense not covered by the government. Yes, you can get some food for them, but the cost of your teenage children shopping along 13th Avenue or the mall will not be convered by any program.

Kollel families and those who support themselves with the government need to keep aware of this fact. While the children are yet young, you can possibly squeeze by on programs. But once they grow up and clamor for money to go shopping, you will not be able to help them.

Take heed, and prepare yourself for the inevitable future. By starting out now, you will have a chance at covering that fearsome expense that we all are bound to face.

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