A concerned and compassionate lady recently wrote to express her concern for persons who, because of unfortunate circumstances, found themselves in a situation that forced them to seek government assistance (“Sometimes people simply need help,” Feb. 20). This seemed to touch a nerve. One person wrote that people shouldn’t have children they can’t afford; others complained about the number of poor folks who live to get over on the government.

I have two questions: Do you feel that most families who honestly need a helping hand should be denied because of a few individuals who try to get over on the government? Do you believe that most working folks are only a few missed paychecks or a serious health problem away from needing some form of government assistance?

Some people get upset when they think poor folks are getting over on the government, whereas I tend to be more concerned about the super-rich who enjoy the benefits of loopholes and lower taxes while some politicians sign pledges to keep them from paying their fair share.

J.K. Lewis

Columbia