Too many ‘poor’ rely on government handouts

“Boost the economy to fight child poverty” headlined Sunday's Gazette editorial. Child poverty? Good grief!

“One in three children come from families so poor they qualify for free or reduced lunch programs.” Really?

Hmmm? The “free and reduced” program justifies its existence by the number of folks “qualified or signed up.” Remember “Field of Dreams?” Build (provide) it and they will come. Presto, the program is needed/justified.

Children don't know they're poor. That has to be inculcated into their heads. Some will take it as a challenge or prod to something better in life. The soon-to-be Speaker of the House, John Boehner, wells up when speaking about this land of opportunity. His personal striving for and achievement of personal betterment brought him to his current station, a story repeated many times in many lives.

Many, too many, however, shift responsibility in their lives to the big nanny - government handouts.

Growing up with four siblings on Dad's naval officer pay led to many cost-saving practices. We boys had paper routes, baby-sitting, pin setting, and bagged groceries and carried them to the cars all for nickels, dimes and quarters. We earned spending money, but most was turned over to Mom for family finances. Were we poor? I wouldn't trade my upbringing for anything. We were fed, clothed, housed and loved.

No hack was needed to judge us or deem a government handout necessary, and I doubt my folks would have considered it. They're gone but their values haven't died yet.

Harvey Hop

Cedar Rapids