Phyllis Gilmore: Anti-poverty programs are making difference

An Eagle editorial criticized Gov. Sam Brownback’s efforts to combat poverty (“Cutting welfare hasn’t reduced poverty,” Nov. 19 Opinion).

According to the most recent Kids Count report, 3,000 fewer children are living in poverty compared with the previous year’s report. This can be attributed to an improved state economy and the Kansas Department for Children and Families’ efforts to encourage self-reliance through employment.

We’ve seen a substantial reduction in the number of people relying on cash assistance. Since January 2011, more than 34,500 cash assistance clients have reported new employment. A long list of success stories detail how people are being empowered to realize the world of options available to them so they can provide for themselves and their families.

The state’s answer to poverty is both employment for those who are struggling to make ends meet, and also poverty prevention programs to help young people realize their potential and begin a path, while still in school, that leads to lifelong success and independence. Programs such as the Kansas Reading Roadmap and Jobs for America’s Graduates are DCF-funded initiatives that identify at-risk youths and provide targeted interventions to support students and their families. The Families and Schools Together program, through the Kansas Reading Roadmap, specifically engages the family in the child’s education and school success.

Government assistance is designed to be a temporary solution, and for many people who receive benefits, that is the case. The average length of time someone receives cash assistance is 18 months, never nearing the state’s now 36-month lifetime limit.

Although some might view the governor’s anti-poverty efforts as punitive, most would disagree. A Rasmussen study found that 83 percent of Americans believe that those who receive welfare benefits and are capable of work should work.

Just ask Hilary Anderson, a DCF client in Kansas City who recently wrote a letter to the agency praising the work of DCF employment services worker Elsy Berry. Anderson wrote:

“From the first day I met her, I could tell right away that she wanted to figure out what my obstacles were and how she could help me to become self-sufficient.... Today I now have a running car, a new apartment with furniture, my license reinstated, my car insurance up to date, job interviews lined up, my kids are proud of me and I’m saving a little money for their birthday party, and a new faith in the goodness of other people like you wouldn’t believe.”

This story was originally published November 21, 2015 at 6:01 PM with the headline "Phyllis Gilmore: Anti-poverty programs are making difference."