The destitution among children and single mothers that liberals predicted when welfare was overhauled in 1996 has not come to pass. Conservatives credit the sweeping welfare reforms with a historic rise in employment among former welfare mothers. But many remain in poverty. When welfare reform comes up for reauthorization in Congress next year, Republicans will argue for trimming funding, since half as many people are on welfare. But Democrats will argue for generous funding to help those still unable to work and to assist new workers with child care and other work expenses. More aid may be forthcoming, now that welfare mothers have become the “working poor” — a group the American public is far more willing to help.

Sarah Glazer specializes in health, education and social-policy issues. Her articles have appeared in The Washington Post, Glamour, The Public Interest and Gender and Work, a book of essays. Glazer covered energy legislation for the Environmental and Energy Study Conference and reported for United Press International. She holds a BA in American history from the University of Chicago.