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Corbett Targets State Welfare Programs

Governor Tom Corbett’s proposed budget calls for changes in the welfare system. The governor wants thousands of people on welfare to find some sort of wor...
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Governor Tom Corbett's proposed budget calls for changes in the welfare system.

The governor wants thousands of people on welfare to find some sort of work before they receive any kind of benefits.

Chris Bolling and Patricia Digangi receive various welfare programs. They believe they are eligible, but fear that could change if the governor's budget reforms get too extreme.

"It's hard enough to get a job and hard enough to get food stamps even let alone energy assistance. Times are tough. People need help," Bolling said.

"I get medical assistance. It helps me get medicine and stuff," Digangi said. "I don't think they should do that."

Elaine Manuele said she receives food stamps and medical assistance and is not sure of the governor's motivations.

"It depends on what he is doing. Is he doing it because he has to or is doing it for political reasons?" Manuele asked.

At the Hazleton YMCA there is a waiting list for child day care. Under the governor's budget, officials would work harder at making sure state payments for daycare are going to those who need it.

"I think that`s very good because you may have parents that are taking advantage of the system sometimes and the ones who really need it are waiting for the day care," said child care director Anna Silkowski.

The governor's budget proposal is just that, a proposal. It still has to work its way through the state legislature.

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