On a recent visit to a large hospital in our area (45 miles), for an appointment, I noticed this form in the examining room:

HOW CAN WE HELP?

In the last 12 months, my family ate less than we should have because we didn't have enough money for food.

In the last 12 months, our utility company shut off services for not paying bills.

I am worried that in the next 2 months I/we may not have stable housing.

I am afraid that I (or my child) might be hurt in my apartment building/house.

I am concerned about the working conditions at my current or recent job.

My family could use help with:

Figuring out how to pay for healthcare (doctor's visits, medications)

Transportation to/from medical appointments

The condition of our rented home/apartment (mold, pests, or other safety concerns)

Getting public benefits (WIC, TANF, Medicaid, Disability, etc.)

Kinda like, we are the government

and we are here to help.

You do know that info sheets like this and more have routinely been handed out in the elementary schools for at least 10-15 years, don't you? They have been collecting this info and more for decades.

The ones they give to the kids also ask if there are any firearms in the house and lots of other questions as well.

Then the teachers collect these and sometimes tell the kids not to mention it to the parents.

Just more ways to get people dependent on Govt. Hospital may get referral fees or bonuses for signing people up. Who knows? Funny thing is you could raise minimum wage to $50, and there'd STILL be a huge demand for stuff like this. Why work for money when the Govt just gives it to you? The last two years public schools have been giving EVERY kid free breakfast and lunch. That's right, Mr. and Mrs. John Q Taxpayer. You've been feeding my kids! From a household in the top 5% of American households in terms of both wealth and income.

Thanks, I think.... I did pay enough in income taxes this last year to more than cover "my share" as well as a couple dozen other shares.

I get a questionnaire on my annual checkup. Health questions mostly and then some about feeling safe in my house. I think they are looking for abuse, which actually is the doctor's business.