Help for needy is a right, not privilege

In response to Robert Juberg's letter of June 4, where he writes "people succeed, not programs," I wonder what planet he's living on. Those with the wherewithal are very fortunate; however, that's not real-world living.

Most do not have funds for college with parents holding down three or four jobs just to raise a family, leaving it to their children to incur huge loans after graduation.

Some harbor illnesses and disabilities that they don't ask for but nevertheless keep them from working. And too, how about those with mental challenges? How do you keep people warm in winter without energy assistance?

How do you keep children healthy enough to go to school without lunch assistance and pantries to feed their families?

All these programs are designed to keep people living the life we all deserve but some cannot afford.

If you recall, democracy is government by the people and FOR the people. What benevolent government would deny its people healthcare, food and other assistance to those who can't help themselves?

As you mentioned, the WPA was an instituted program brought about by FDR's administration to put able-bodied people to work mainly to build an infrastructure -- which at this moment in time is not happening. Mind you, I said, "able bodied." Many are not. Whichever way you look at it, a government without programs is an oligarchy at best, but most likely a dictatorship.

Sheila Lawrence

Streamwood