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Social Security Created
In 1935, the Social Security program was created as an insurance for disabled workers, retirees, and survivors' benefits. -
Establishment of the First Food Stamp Program
The first rudimentary food stamp program was begun, in which citizens could purchase orange stamps. For every $1 spent on orange stamps, $0.50 worth of blue stamps would be received to help aid in food purchases for those considered to be in poverty. There are many credited with the catalyzing of this program, but most famous are Secretary of Agriculture, Henry Wallace, and the program's first director, Milo Perkins. -
Lyndon B. Johnson's Second Inaugural Address
In his second inaugural address, President Johnson announced his fierce mission to take poverty head on. This proclamation of the "War on Poverty" was the catalyst for the enactment of significant government legislation and programs that would aid in the fight against poverty. -
Permanent Establishment of Food Stamp Benefits
In 1964, President Johnson signed the Food Stamp Act, making permanent the governmental assistance program that provides funds to those in poverty in order to obtain food. -
Installment of the Economic Opportunity Act
In 1964, this Economic Opportunity Act was enacted in order to strengthen and create further aid for those living under the poverty line, in an effort to continue to fight the War on Poverty. -
The Beginning of Headstart
After the fight began against the War on Poverty, the government discovered value in offering high quality education to young children in an effort to create a more well-educated society in which, hopefully, the poverty level would decline. In addition, it allowed parents care and education programs for their young children while they worked. Originally begun as an eight week summer program, Head Start moved to full time education and care in 1998. -
Establishment of Medicare/Medicaid
In 1965, President Johnson signed a law that helped in the creation of medicare and medicaid. These programs are governmental assistance programs that aid in making healthcare more affordable for American citizens. -
Higher Education Act
Helped create more educational assistance and resources for those seeking higher education. Aided in making higher education more affordable.
