1. This article contains many quotes from the 19th century which use challenging vocabulary. To better understand the article, before reading, define the following words as used in the article:
-discernment (para. 3)
-improvident, intemperate, shiftless, alms (para. 4)
-pauperize/pauperism (para. 7, 23)
-temperance, truants (para. 10)
-indolent, vicious, manifest, exertions (para. 13)
-plausible (para. 15)

2. a) What type of help did the Boston Provident Association give to people in need in the 1800's?
b) Who did the Association refuse to help?
c) What did they ask supporters to do? Why?

3. In the late 1800's, charities emphasized helping adults who were able and willing to work, or who were "improvident or intemperate, but not hopelessly so" to find jobs. What type of people did charities classify as "Unworthy, Not Entitled to Relief"?

4. What was a "work test" and what was its purpose?

5. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, charities spent time with each person asking for help to determine whether he or she was "worthy" or "unworthy" poor. What type of people fit into each group?

6. Re-read paragraph 10. In what ways did Associated Charities help people in a typical year?

7. The typical 19th century approach to helping those in need was generosity plus discernment. Many Christians supported this ideal, but others who opposed it called for governmental welfare. Why did late 19th century pastors and social workers generally oppose government welfare?

8. What do you think of the idea of "worthy" and "unworthy" poor? Should those who are given meals or a place to stay be required to do something in exchange for assistance: work - such as cleaning up, doing dishes, etc? Do charities (private and government) have the responsibility to teach those needing assistance how to be independent and self-reliant? Explain your answers.