Proposed Cuts for Welfare Moms

Welfare reform is certainly needed in California, but cutting benefits isn’t the answer as our governor believes. Having been on AFDC and as a single mother, I know the system and I know where the resources lie to get out of the system--education.

I have been in college part time and have acquired part-time employment on campus or through the job listings there. I have achieved not only an education, but job skills as well. I am eligible for many forms of financial aid by virtue of receiving AFDC.

I must admit that the benefits and medical coverage are the backbone of support that allowed me to work part time and attend classes and still financially survive. I know when I am finished with my education and enter the field I’m preparing for (college teaching) I will be able to secure employment and get off the state’s money for good.

By cutting benefits you only feed the suffering of poor children in California and perhaps add to the population of homeless and petty criminals. By requiring a mother to enroll in vocational or academic classes to work toward gainful employment, you give her dignity through independence and her children pride and respect for their mother.

Ignorance is slavery, not welfare.

C.L. SCHULTHEIS

Long Beach