The following are taken from what are reported to be actual
letters received by the Missouri Welfare Department in applications
for financial support.
-
I am forwarding my marriage certificate and 6 children.
I had seven but one died which was baptised on a half sheet of paper. -
I am writing the welfare department to say that my baby
was born two years old. When do I get my money? -
Mrs. Jones has not had any clothes for two years and has
been visited regularly by the clergy. -
I cannot get sick pay. I have six children can you tell me why?
-
I am glad to report that my husband who is missing is dead.
[Khan, Tausif] 6. This is my eighth child. What are you going to do about it.
-
Please find for certain if my husband is dead. The man I
am now living with can’t do anything until he knows. -
I am very much annoyed to find out that you have branded
my son illiterate. This is a dirty lie as I was married a week
before he was born. -
In answer to your letter, I have given birth to a son
weighing 10 lbs. I hope this is satisfactory. -
I am forwarding my marriage certificate and my 3
children one of which is a mistake as you can see. -
My husband got his project cut off about two weeks ago
and I haven’t had any relief since. -
Unless I get my husband’s money pretty soon, I will be
forced to lead an immortal life. -
You have my changed little boy to a girl, will this
make any difference? -
I have no children yet, as my husband is a truck driver
and works night and day. -
I want money as quick as I can get it. I have been in
bed with the doctor for two weeks and he doesn’t do me
any good. If things don’t improve, I will have to send for another doctor. -
In accordance with your instructions, I have given
birth to twins in the enclosed envelope.