The misfit--the involuntary nonproducer

Abstract

Involuntary nonproducers, those who do not earn money and are dependent upon others for support because of special circumstances or limitations, make up the hard core of public welfare caseloads, e.g., children, the aged, members of minority groups who are denied opportunities, parolees from prison, the mentally retarded or mentally ill. Although some can become producers, public welfare's acknowledgment that it cannot make producers out of individuals who are not production material is not necessarily a hopeless attitude. Rehabilitation efforts should be directed first toward those who can become producers, but those who cannot should not be completely rejected. They will continue to need adequate financial aid and protective and supportive services. (RUTH ALTIS ARNOLD)