I firmly support the notion of lending a hand up when needed but not without exception. When times are tough people pull together but I do share the thoughts voiced below about people who take advantage. This comment from an Alberta Canada trade association blog holds as much significance in the US as Canada. I don't see how I can disagree with this well make point.

 I work, they pay me. I pay my taxes and the government distributes my taxes as it sees fit. In order to earn that pay cheque, I work on a rig site for a FortMacMurry construction project. I am required to pass a random urine test, with which I have no problem. What I do have a problem with is the distribution of my taxes to people who don't have to pass a urine test. Shouldn't one have to pass a urine test to get a welfare cheque because I have to pass one to earn it for them? Please understand -- I have no problem with helping people get back on their feet. I do on the other hand have a problem with helping someone sit on their ass drinking beer and smoking dope. Could you imagine how much money the provinces would save if people had to pass a urine test to get a public assistance cheque?