Welfare is meant to be a TEMPORARY help. Not a lifelone thing. I have used it. More than once even. But, as soon as I was back on my feet, I got off welfare. Why? Because I want it there when I need to again IF I need it again. Too many lazy users out there.

Look, a minimum wage job does not provide a "living wage". If it did, then no-one would need welfare or more than one job. Basicly, a minumum wage job is the one you take while still living at home until you get QUALIFICATIONS to work at a good paying job.

i.e. Work at McDonalds while in tech school and live at home or with a room mate. Once you finish tech school, you get a decent paying job and move into your own place.

Too many people work at McDonalds (or some other min wage dive) and say "Woe is me...I work two (or three) jobs and still can't make ends meet. I NEED welfare so I can survive. (pssst....got any rock)" Get a job skill. Welding doesn't take too long to learn at tech school, and is FAIRLY inexpensive for the schooling. The end result is that you have a TRADE that you will be able to do for almost your whole life. Carpentry is another. Take your pick...Electrician....Plumber (bonus with this one, you get to PROVIDE free crack! LOL) So....yes, you have to suffer for a while.....but not forever if you take life by the balls and let IT know whats up.