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The federal government funds welfare programs which provide cash, food, and medical benefits to disabled individuals and poor families. The medical portion of welfare (known as Medicaid) is by far the most expensive component.
The welfare program causing the greatest controversy has been the family cash assistance program. For a some recipients, participation in this program had become a way of life. Congress changed this in 1996 primarily by placing limits on the length of time that a family could receive assistance. The result has been a dramatic reduction in program participation and a corresponding increase of single mothers entering the workforce.
One interesting characteristic of U.S. welfare programs is that many potentially eligible recipients do not apply for benefits.
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