The government can directly help those in need through cash transfers as a short term expedient. This has been applied with mixed results in most Western 
societies during the 20th century in what became known as the welfare state. Especially for those most at risk, such as the elderly and people with disabilities. 
Private charity. Systems to encourage direct transfers to the poor by citizens organised into voluntary or not-for-profit groupings are often encouraged by the state through charitable trusts and tax deduction arrangements.
societies during the 20th century in what became known as the welfare state. Especially for those most at risk, such as the elderly and people with disabilities. 
Private charity. Systems to encourage direct transfers to the poor by citizens organised into voluntary or not-for-profit groupings are often encouraged by the state through charitable trusts and tax deduction arrangements.