While the US has some programs for poorer people, they leave a lot to be desired. I know people who have worked at rather low-level jobs ( like Ennis') all their lives. These folks have very little money paid into Social Security Administration program. Therefore, their monthy SS allotment is small -- maybe only $600 dollars or so. That doesn't go far when you have to pay rent, food, clothing, medicine and some doctor's bills. Medicare doesn't kick in until age 65,so, up til then, there is very little medical assistance available. There is some for children, but the rules are getting more and more stringent all the time and fewer poor kids are being covered by state medical insurance. Things are bleak if you have to rely upon what the government gives you. People who become disabled have a rough way to go. Often, two or three years will go by after they first apply for SS disability. During that time, they get NOTHING to live on but their own resources ( savings). Consequently, a lot of disabled people give up and stop the qualifying process and go back to some sort of menial work and rely upon charity and extended family to get them through. Things are not perfect with the welfare program or the SS program. Of course, it's more than a lot of countries have, but does not provide an easy life for anyone who hasn't saved. This is hard to get young people to understand. The government will NOT take care of you automatically when you are old. You have to make some provisions for yourself now while you are young and able.
In Ennis' case, I'm sure he would have no savings. I doubt, too, if all his jobs paid SS into the SSAd. When he becomes an old man and can no longer work, he will have a mighty tough time of it. Too bad Jack won't be around to help him out a little.
