Poor neighborhoods are doomed to grow poorer whenever the natural ties of neighborliness are weakened by well-meant but unintelligent interference. For example, studies show that many homeless alcoholics have families, but they do not want to be with them. We should ask, as well, whether other programs help or hurt. It's good to help an unmarried teenager mother, but much such aid now offers a mirage of independence. A better plan is to bulwark the beleaguered mom by enabling her to provide a better present.
Genuine accountability demands nothing less.
Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty 161 Ottawa NW, Ste.