Paying Steve $100 isn't the only option. If my alcoholic friend from college came to me because he was short on rent or needed to buy them groceries, I wouldn'

Paying Steve $100 isn't the only option. If my alcoholic friend from college came to me because he was short on rent or needed to buy them groceries, I wouldn't give them $100. I'd offer to buy them groceries or write a check to the landlord directly. The government can do the same thing. If someone needs healthcare or education and can't afford it, pay for the healthcare or education. A social net doesn't mean a blank check.