Programs guide those in need to independence

To the editor:

Scott Moyers and Sam Blackwell deserve commendation for their informative and thoughtful stories on welfare issues and recipients published March 10 and 11. They succeeded in putting human faces on programs serving the poor that often are surrounded by false rumors and suspicions.

The national debate on extension or modification of the 1996 welfare-reform legislation is under way. It is vitally important that the Southeast Missourian and other media continue to provide citizens with an accurate picture of the sincere efforts most recipients of public assistance are making to free themselves from dependence on government aid.

It is equally important that the media continue to provide accurate and in-depth information about the great work being done by helping organizations such as Missouri Mentoring Partnership, Project Hope, SEMO Workforce Investment Board, East Missouri Action Agency and Missouri Division of Family Services. The help provided by these agencies often makes the difference between people getting on the path to independence versus falling back into dependency on government assistance.

Keep up the good reporting, please.

ROBERT FULTON

Patton, Mo.