Should they have taken food stamps at least? Is it more important to have pride or have food? Did the refusal of food stamps and charity contribute to the children’s ultimate independence and self motivation?

Everyone on Little Hobart Street in Welch is poor, and “everyone grudgingly accepted some form of public aid.” The Walls, however, refused any kind of help, although they were the poorest family on the street. Jeannette says, “Mom and Dad never applied for welfare or food stamps, and they always refused charity” (159). Why did the parents refuse any help? Should they have taken food stamps at least? Is it more important to have pride or have food? Did the refusal of food stamps and charity contribute to the children’s ultimate independence and self motivation?