The difference is largely in the perspective of the individual directly affected. In fact it is likely that the receivers of charity are in fact unproductive, ie out of work. In that they represent a potential for production indicates they are not useless however. By accepting charity one may however feel useless. Because people are often thrust out of the work force without any forewarning and because it is common that new work is difficult to find, the acceptance of charity doesn't always cause distress.
Workers know that their aid is only temporary until they are matched with a new job.
In either case, when people are in the position where charity is being offered and is needed, it is likely that they will feel both unproductive and grateful. Because they are in trouble economically their lives can indeed be an inferno. Being grateful for help often induces people to organize and give more of themselves to others. Those who have been helped often feel motivated to help others. On the other hand, those who feel unproductive and useless are ashamed and bitter.