What is the main purpose of the Aid for Dependent Children (AFDC) program?

The main purpose of the Aid for Dependent Children (AFDC) program is indeed to offer supplemental financial aid to households with minor children. This program was designed to provide financial assistance to low-income families, particularly those that are single-parent, to help ensure that children in such households could have their basic needs met, including food, clothing, and shelter. The program aimed to promote family stability by providing support to those who were economically disadvantaged.

The focus on providing direct financial assistance to families with children is crucial because it recognizes the specific challenges faced by households with dependents. By targeting aid to families, AFDC aimed to reduce the risk of child poverty and promote the well-being of children within those families. This emphasis on child welfare was significant in shaping social assistance policies in the United States.

In contrast, other options such as providing unemployment insurance, guaranteeing loans for first-time homebuyers, or supporting adult education programs do not align with the primary objectives of the AFDC program, which is specifically focused on assisting families with minor children in need of financial support.