A Crippling Society: The Impact of Government Assistance Programs

Government assistance programs are intended to support first-time families, single parents, and student-parents, particularly those with low incomes. However, depending on this assistance long-term can sometimes do more harm than good. While these programs can be beneficial, they can also be crippling. For example, Section 8 housing serves a crucial purpose for low income & marginalized households but can also restrict opportunities for those who rely on it.

I deeply appreciate my mother for providing a home when I was under her care, before the foster care system intervened in the tumultuous environment we lived in. She kept a roof over our heads, which is something I am grateful for. However, a home should be more than just a shelter; it should be a place of solitude, grace, and peace—a place you’re proud to call home.

My mother’s reliance on Section 8 housing has restricted her financial mobility. I’m not certain if she fully realizes the extent of this impact, but one thing is clear: I am different from everyone else in my family. I often find myself questioning how I fit in, given my conceptual approach to life. Recently, I’ve come to understand that I am indeed in the right family. They need someone like me—someone who, despite being similar yet different, can provide insights they might overlook or not fully comprehend. My perspective, grounded in education and faith, has shown me that I play a crucial role in bridging gaps in understanding within my family.

Though I take pride in my academic achievements, acknowledging the struggles I endured to earn each degree, I am acutely aware that I did so with minimal family support. This realization is essential for my family to understand. While it may seem that I boast about my accomplishments, it’s important to recognize that my journey was fraught with challenges. My previous blog, “Finding Resilience Through Yoga: My Journey with Trauma, Avoidance, and Self-Battle,” reflects my internal struggle with confidence and insecurity, stemming from my family dynamics.

Despite the embarrassment I feel about my family, I am driven to understand each of them. I believe that they, like many, would benefit from further education on human behavior and development. Formal education is invaluable, and that’s why I am committed to lifelong learning.

Returning to the main issue: the crippling effect of government assistance. My mother’s dependence on Section 8 housing has confined her financial growth. The fear of losing her assistance if she earns more has limited her ability to provide a better life for her children. She often says, “I don’t owe you anything, Tiara. I raised my children.” I’ve questioned this statement, as I recall being left unattended and in the care of others for extended periods during my childhood. It felt like waiting for a prince, except I was waiting for my primary caregiver.

While government assistance is vital for many, it should not be a permanent crutch. It should serve as a stepping stone to improve one’s situation and eventually be relinquished to help others in similar circumstances. Don’t let any system, including government assistance, hold you back or limit your potential.

Don’t let anything cripple you—especially not the government!

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