Abstract

Second-Class Children

The article focuses on underprivileged children in the U.S. These are the children whose fathers have died or deserted them, or whose parents were not married, or whose homes were broken up by divorce or the father's physical or mental incapacitation. These are the recipients of "aid to dependent children," as provided by the Social Security Act. So that these boys and girls can have food, shelter, and clothing, and so that they can go to school, the federal government will match state-aid payments up to a combined maximum of $24 a month for one child and $15 a month for each additional child. Twelve states actually meet only the former federal maximum payments of $18 and $12. Some states add money to federally matched funds, up to specified limits. A few set no artificial ceiling on the cost of growing up, but in some of these aid is only rendered in "approved" case.