Answer to Question 1
Modern governments have taken on the responsibility of assisting those in need through a variety of programs called income-maintenance programs that provide them with some minimal level of resources. In the United States, these programs can be divided into two general categories: social insurance and public assistance.
Answer to Question 2
Many poor people do work at low-paying or part-time jobs. Among the poor who do not work at all, one half of them are either ill, disabled, or retired. Another one-third are in school or are looking for but cannot find work. Others are prevented from working by child rearing or other family obligations. Still others have given up on trying to find work after years with no success.