AFDC meaning

AFDC, which stands for Aid to Families with Dependent Children, provided financial assistance to families in need.


AFDC definitions

Word backwards CDFA
Part of speech AFDC is an initialism for Aid to Families with Dependent Children. It is a proper noun.
Syllabic division The syllable separation of the word AFDC is A-F-D-C.
Plural The plural of AFDC is AFDCs, as in "There are many different AFDCs available for families in need."
Total letters 4
Vogais (1) a
Consonants (4) a,f,d,c

What is AFDC?

AFDC stands for Aid to Families with Dependent Children, a federal assistance program in the United States that provided financial support to low-income families with children. The program was created as part of the Social Security Act of 1935 and was designed to help families facing economic hardship.

How did AFDC work?

Under the AFDC program, eligible families would receive monthly cash payments to help cover the costs of raising children. The amount of assistance varied depending on factors such as family size, income, and state regulations. In addition to financial support, AFDC also provided access to other services such as job training and childcare assistance.

Historical significance of AFDC

AFDC played a significant role in reducing poverty among families with children. It was the first federal assistance program to provide direct financial aid to families in need. However, the program faced criticism for perpetuating a cycle of poverty and dependency among recipients.

The transition to TANF

In 1996, the AFDC program was replaced by the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. TANF placed greater emphasis on work requirements and time limits for receiving assistance. This shift aimed to encourage self-sufficiency among recipients and reduce long-term dependency on government aid.

Impact of AFDC

Although AFDC no longer exists, its legacy can be seen in the current welfare system in the United States. The program served as a foundation for future assistance programs and shaped the way policymakers approach poverty alleviation and social welfare.


AFDC Examples

  1. The AFDC program provided financial assistance to low-income families.
  2. Many families relied on AFDC to make ends meet.
  3. The AFDC program was replaced by TANF in 1996.
  4. She applied for AFDC benefits after losing her job.
  5. AFDC helped many single mothers support their children.
  6. Some critics argued that AFDC created a culture of dependency.
  7. Receiving AFDC benefits was contingent on meeting certain criteria.
  8. The AFDC program aimed to alleviate poverty among vulnerable populations.
  9. AFDC was a key component of the social safety net in the United States.
  10. The eligibility requirements for AFDC varied from state to state.


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  • Updated 07/04/2024 - 14:04:05