I am under the impression that welfare is a trap. But not because of the recipients, but because the way the government has it set up. If you are working, they do not want you to qualify for assistance. The requirements are such that you are either dirt poor, or lower-working class.
I applied about a year ago simply because half of my pay goes to child care. After all necessities, there was nothing left. I work every day, rarely take off. I have no intention of quitting my job to sit on my ass to collect their "benefits." All I needed was a little cushion so I could save some money and move on with my life.
I got 5 letters in the mail on the same day stating that I was denied. I was beyond pissed, but I bet I'll never apply again. I'd rather suffer until I find a better gig.
And so I disagree with drug-testing beyond an invasion of privacy because simply, a lot of people who apply are working-class people like myself. We need a freakin' cushion sometimes when life circumstances change. We aren't necessarily laid up and popping out babies and taking advantage of the system, and the drug-testing perpetuates the stereotype that welfare recipients are ne'er do well partyers with addictions and 7 children by 9 babies' daddies.
I still think it's a trap though.
