Non-profits more effective than government at “safety net”

Many worry that devolution will unravel our society’s safety net. But what is needed is a revitalization of those agencies that have shown time and time again that they truly can help the destitute: Not-for-profit organizations, specifically, private charities.

Non-profits do many of the things we have come to think of as government service activities, but they typically do it far more effectively. For example, Sister Connie’s House of Hope shelter for women in Chicago has a 95% success rate -- a record that towers over that of any of the city’s shelters. This is because Sister Connie can practice a “tough love” approach. She has random drug testing, curfews, and requires her “clients” to find solid employment.