History
Fact-checked

At HistoricalIndex, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Social Spending?

Susan Grindstaff
Susan Grindstaff

Social spending usually refers to funds governments set aside for social programs. Many of these programs are designed to offer assistance to the poor or needy, and may include allotments for housing, food, and medical care. Depending on the needs of the individual, these programs could offer either permanent or temporary assistance.

The ultimate goal of most government social spending programs is the eventual elimination of poverty. People who live in poverty often need help to improve their situation, and governments in most developed countries are willing to offer that assistance. Some welfare programs require that the recipient participate in programs designed to help them gain employment. This is sometimes required to discourage using social spending programs as a way of life, but rather as a steppingstone to eventual self-reliance.

The goal of social spending is to alleviate the symptoms of poverty.
The goal of social spending is to alleviate the symptoms of poverty.

Many social spending programs involve food assistance. In the United States, citizens can apply for food stamps, which is a program offering funds that can be used to purchase food. Food stamp eligibility is determined by factors based on income and the number of people who live in the household. Food stamp allotments are intended only for the purchase of food and cannot be used for any other purpose. In addition, food stamps can only be used to buy food sold at groceries or other food retailers, and are prohibited for use in restaurants or other food service establishments.

Social spending programs may be focused on helping single parents.
Social spending programs may be focused on helping single parents.

Governments often set aside funds to help their citizens maintain health and to offer medical assistance to those who cannot afford it on their own. In the US, government-funded health clinics offer free or reduced pricing on some wellness programs such as immunizations, addiction management, and weight loss. Depending on age and income level, needy citizens may qualify for other health programs such as Medicaid or Medicare. Some countries, such as the United Kingdom and Canada, offer universal health care for all their citizens, regardless of age or income level.

Social spending might be done on programs aimed to help children get proper nutrition.
Social spending might be done on programs aimed to help children get proper nutrition.

Social spending is often targeted at education. Most public school systems are a good example of this, and many experts believe that education is the key to eliminating poverty. Some governments offer education programs that assist students all the way through college, but in the US, free education typically ends after high school. In some cases, students may receive grants or scholarships, but most of these are privately funded and do not involve government funds.

Discussion Comments

Telsyst

It's a shame that abuse of the welfare and disability insurance programs have made it next to impossible for people who really do need help to pay the bills or get back on their feet after getting laid off or being sick.

Not everyone on welfare is there just to mooch off of society. Especially in times where unemployment is high, there are proud, hard-working people who have no choice but to temporarily seek government assistance.

As a country, we need to stop assuming that everyone who needs help is lazy or a drug addict.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • The goal of social spending is to alleviate the symptoms of poverty.
      By: NinaMalyna
      The goal of social spending is to alleviate the symptoms of poverty.
    • Social spending programs may be focused on helping single parents.
      By: Hogan Imaging
      Social spending programs may be focused on helping single parents.
    • Social spending might be done on programs aimed to help children get proper nutrition.
      By: JorgeAlejandro
      Social spending might be done on programs aimed to help children get proper nutrition.
    • Literacy and other educational programs are one facet of social spending.
      By: kjekol
      Literacy and other educational programs are one facet of social spending.
    • In the United States, families and individuals who live in poverty can apply for food assistance.
      By: JackF
      In the United States, families and individuals who live in poverty can apply for food assistance.
    • Social spending may be focused on improving civil services.
      By: Petr Nad
      Social spending may be focused on improving civil services.
    • Social spending programs may offer allotments for medical care.
      By: Monkey Business
      Social spending programs may offer allotments for medical care.
    • Education costs are part of social spending.
      By: jillchen
      Education costs are part of social spending.
    • Social spending may be used to provide adequate shelter for the poor.
      By: Andrea Izzotti
      Social spending may be used to provide adequate shelter for the poor.