During the Great Depression, many people lost their jobs as factories and businesses closed. Both public and private programs tried to help those who had no money.
Most people believed that it was a disgrace to accept public assistance. The Great Depression changed that attitude. People realized that anyone could be affected by the Great Depression. Their neighbors, friends, and family members could lose their jobs, savings, and homes.
President Roosevelt created "The New Deal" with many programs that became known by their abbrevations, such as the REA (Rural Electricfication Administration), the PWA (Public Works Administration), and the FHA (Federal Housing Administration).
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) gave unemployed youths an opportunity to do useful conservation reforestation in exchange for food, lodging and a small stipend. |