Aid to families with dependent children: who receives more than $22 billion and why?

A general outline of the Aid to Families with Dependent Children program is provided. The $22 billion program provides financial support to 14 million persons (including more than 9 million children). The changing character of the family structure is considered in terms of efforts to control AFDC spending. Additional programs to assist children (Social Security, Supplemental Security Insurance and Food Stamps) are reviewed.