Social Assistance Programs Research Articles

Social Assistance and Family Functioning: A Study on the Family Functions of Individuals Benefiting from Social and Economic Support Services

Social assistance can be defined as programs, policies, or institutions aimed at preventing, reducing, or eliminating poverty. Through out history, various social assistance programs have been implemented to address poverty. In Turkey, the Ministry of Family and Social Services (MFSS) and various organizations provide social assistance. A notable service offered by ASHB is the Social and Economic Support (SES) program, which holds significant importance in supporting children in need of protection with in families. In a study evaluating the impact of the SES program on family functions, a socio-demographic information form and the Family Assessment Scale were administered to 194 families benefiting from the SES program through the Karadeniz Ereğli Social Services Center Directorate. The study aimed to determine if there were significant statistical relationships between the duration of receiving SES services (in months) and various subscales of the assessment tools. Statistical analyses, including t-tests to investigate differences between means of two data groups and ANOVA tests to explore differences among more than two data groups, were conducted. Post-hoc analyses were performed to identify specific group differences when significant differences emerged from the ANOVA analysis.The results indicated that an increase in the duration of SES service utilization led to improvements in problem-solving, communication, roles, behavior control, and over all family functions. Therefore, the duration of SES service utilization appears to positively influence family functions.

DAMPAK KORUPSI BANSOS TERHADAP KESEJAHTERAAN MASYARAKAT DALAM PANDANGAN MAHASISWA SEKOLAH TINGGI DESAIN INDONESIA

This article explores the impact of corruption on social assistance programmes and its effect on community welfare from the perspective of design students. Corruption, which is a practice that harms both the state and society, often hinders the effectiveness of social assistance programmes, which should aim to improve social welfare. Design students, with different backgrounds and approaches, produce different perspectives in analysing the impact of corruption on social welfare. Through case studies and qualitative analysis, this article shows how corruption can affect social assistance distribution, service quality, and community satisfaction. The results show that design students have an assessment of social assistance corruption cases and design students can play an important role in reducing corruption and increasing the effectiveness of social assistance, so that it can contribute to improving people's welfare.

The Financial Model for Water and Sanitation Services in Portugal: Lessons from Decades of Subsidies and Questionable Public Policies

Despite the billions of euros used as subsidies over recent decades, Portugal’s water sector continues to struggle, being characterized by significant inefficiencies and differences between high- and low-performing water and sanitation services (WSSs). Current subsidy policies lack transparency and are not linked to performance results, undermining efforts to promote efficiency and sustainability in both environmental and financial dimensions. To address these issues, this article highlights relevant aspects to be taken into account in the redefinition of funding allocation in the Portuguese WSS sector. By implementing performance-based criteria for subsidy allocation and prioritization, regardless of the identity of beneficiaries or providers, we aim to instigate accountability and efficiency in this process. The analysis draws on empirical data to highlight the shortcomings of existing practices and demonstrates the potential benefits of adopting the “user-pays” principle. This principle is able to improve the definition of tariffs aiming for full cost recovery, while still providing for disadvantaged and vulnerable customers through social tariffs or assistance programs. Key findings indicate that coordinated efforts among government agencies, regulators, public and private utilities, and municipalities are essential to develop and promote effective financing strategies. This stakeholder’s cooperation is essential for managing the urban water cycle sustainably and addressing the sector’s long-term challenges. This research implies that a strategic shift in subsidy allocation is required, to develop accountability, efficiency, and equity in the WSS sector. The allocation of financial resources must be better justified to enhance overall performance in the sector.

Can Social Assistance Strengthen the Social Contract in Somalia?

In a country still experiencing localised conflict, massive chronic poverty, widespread food insecurity, and the recurrent risk of famine, with a fragile government competing for legitimacy and highly dependent on donor finance, is it reasonable to expect social assistance to contribute to social contract formation? This article explores political economy analyses of what other contracts or bargains might be more important to the government and asks whether particular features or elements of social assistance programmes might contribute to improved state–society relations.

Evaluasi Program Bantuan Sosial Lansia Non Potensial di Kota Madiun dengan Model Context Input Process Product (CIPP)

The non-potential elderly social assistance program is Madiun City's flagship program for handling helpless elderly which is implemented on an ongoing basis, but has never been evaluated for its effectiveness. The aim of the research is to describe the results of the match between program achievements and the initial design and to determine the driving and inhibiting factors of the program. The research method is descriptive qualitative, with data collection techniques using observation, interviews and documentation. Evaluation uses the Context, Input, Process, and Product (CIPP) model. The results of the Context evaluation explain that the program objectives and target priorities are in line with community needs. Input shows that the instruments for implementing the program are incomplete. Process describes program implementation as less effective. The product shows that the program objectives have been achieved but have not been maximized. Meanwhile, factors driving the success of the program include the commitment of the Mayor of Madiun, fairly complete regulations, funding support, and community participation in implementing the program. Inhibiting factors include the limited number of implementing human resources, the lack of synergy between various parties, and the lack of an integrated system. The conclusion is that this program is still needed for the treatment of non-potential elderly, but program improvements need to be implemented immediately so that the goals are achieved more optimally.

Uncovering the drivers of food insecurity in Cameroon: insights from a nationwide cross-sectional analysis

BackgroundDespite global efforts to achieve zero hunger, food insecurity remains a critical challenge in several African countries, including Cameroon. This study aims to identify sociodemographic predictors of food insecurity across Cameroon through a comprehensive, nationwide cross-sectional analysis.MethodsData for this study were drawn from the 2018 Cameroon Demographic and Health Survey (CDHS). Food insecurity levels were evaluated using the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). To estimate the probabilities of moderate and severe food insecurity among different sociodemographic groups, logistic regression models were applied, with results expressed as average marginal effects (AME).ResultsThe findings reveal that approximately 24.86% of participants experienced moderate food insecurity, while 28.96% faced severe food insecurity. Among men, the proportion experiencing severe food insecurity was 38.8%, compared to 24.3% for women. Multivariable regression analysis showed that severe food insecurity was less likely among women [AME = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.83,0.86], Muslims [AME = 0.91, 95%CI = 0.90,0.93], individuals with higher education levels (secondary education: AME = 0.93, 95%CI = 0.90,0.95; higher education: AME = 0.87, 95%CI = 0.85,0.90), those owning land (either alone or jointly) [AME = 0.92, 95%CI = 0.89,0.96], wealthiest households (moderate food insecurity: AME = 0.91, 95%CI = 0.88,0.93; severe food insecurity: AME = 0.73, 95%CI = 0.70,0.75), female-headed households [AME = 0.97, 95%CI = 0.96,0.99], and rural residents [AME = 0.97, 95%CI = 0.95,0.98].ConclusionsThese findings underscore that food insecurity affects a substantial portion of the Cameroonian population, with certain sociodemographic groups more vulnerable than others. This study proposes targeted policy recommendations to address food insecurity in Cameroon, including social assistance programs for at-risk groups, investments in socioeconomic empowerment, improvements in agricultural productivity, and ongoing research to guide evidence-based interventions.

Analysis of Village Residents Receiving Social Assistance Using Linear Regression Method

This study aims to analyze the recipients of social assistance in Banyumas Village using the simple linear regression method. The research examines how household income affects the amount of social assistance received. Data was collected from the Banyumas Village Office, including information on income and the amount of social assistance received by residents. The results show a negative relationship between household income and the amount of assistance received, where higher income leads to smaller assistance. The model also demonstrates good accuracy with an average prediction error (MAPE) of 9.38%. Additionally, an R² value of 0.999972 indicates that the model can explain almost all variations in the data. This study provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of the social assistance program in Banyumas Village and to help improve the program in the future.

PENERAPAN FUZZY C-Means CLUSTERING sebagai PENDUKUNG SISTEM KEPUTUSAN SELEKSI PENERIMA BANTUAN SOSIAL: Desa Sukau Kayo, Lebong, Bengkulu, Indonesia

Abstract. Frequently the occurrence of discrepancies in selecting eligible candidates for social assistance programmes. Thus, the research aims for creating a support system for making decisions in the selection of prospective recipients of social assistance programmes by applying the Fuzzy C-Means (FCM) method for direct assistance recipients who are eligible or not. The results obtained after testing of system on the 91% questionnaire results are very helpful in taking a decision.

Implementasi Penyaluran Bantuan Sosial Kepada Korban Bencana Banjir di Kecamatan Waru Kabupaten Sidoarjo

This research aims to describe in more detail the distribution of social assistance (bansos) carried out by the Sidoarjo Regency Government to residents of Waru District who were affected by the flood disaster. Using qualitative research methods, this research refers to David C. Korten's Implementation Theory with three indicators, namely 1) Conformity between the program and utilization, 2) Conformity between the program and the implementing organization, and 3) Conformity between the user group and the implementing organization. This research uses a three-stage data collection technique, namely interviews, documentation, and literature study involving the Sidoarjo Regency Government, stakeholders involved, and residents of Waru District who were affected by the flood. The research results show that the distribution of social assistance for flood disasters in Waru District has operated well, with indicators 1) The suitability of the social assistance program which has been right on target, namely distributed to flood disaster victims in Waru District; 2) Suitability of the program that has been implemented by the appropriate officer according to their field; and 3) Suitability for the people of Waru District who receive social assistance from the Sidoarjo Regency Government in a structured and coordinated manner.

Implementation of BLT DD: Insights from Village Cash Assistance Program

Background: Direct Cash Assistance from village funds (BLT DD) is vital for supporting rural communities, particularly during economic challenges. Specific background: Since 2020, Desa Gelam has allocated funds for BLT DD, making it a relevant case for examining program implementation. Knowledge gap: Limited research exists on the detailed execution and impact of BLT DD at the village level. Aims: This study analyzes the implementation of BLT DD in Desa Gelam, focusing on the roles of village officials and the importance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for transparency. Results: Findings reveal that clear SOPs enhance the effective distribution of aid, with significant contributions from the village head and welfare officer, aligning with Edward III’s theory of communication, resources, disposition, and bureaucratic structure. Novelty: This research offers insights into how structured procedures improve social aid program execution, emphasizing village leadership. Implications: The study highlights the necessity of clear guidelines and strong leadership to ensure successful social assistance programs like BLT DD, serving as a model for enhancing aid distribution efficiency in other villages. Highlights : Role of SOPs: Clear standard operating procedures enhance transparency and efficiency in aid distribution. Leadership Impact: Village head and welfare officer are crucial for the successful implementation of BLT DD. Theoretical Alignment: Findings support Edward III’s theory on effective communication and resource management in social programs. Keywords: Direct Cash Assistance, BLT DD, Desa Gelam, standard operating procedures, village leadership

THE MAIN CHALLENGES OF THE SOCIAL PROTECTION SYSTEM IN POST-PANDEMIC GEORGIA

In the post-pandemic period in Georgia, despite the high rate of economic growth, poverty and social exclusion remain an acute challenge. The social protection mechanisms operating in the country, such as one-time cash assistance, targeted social assistance, and other support services, such as housing and shelter, services for disabled persons, etc., still cannot provide the desired living conditions for citizens. Establishing and further improving a sustainable, fair, and effective social protection system is one of the country's priorities. Ensuring the effectiveness of the targeted social assistance system is a significant task of both the central and municipal governments. The targeted social assistance program operating in Georgia, which assesses the socio-economic status of families according to the updated methodology, tries to realistically evaluate the needs of the socially vulnerable part of the population, children and families with children, and accordingly determine the main directions of social policy. It is also significant to promote the integration of individuals with disabilities, to improve the socio-economic status and living conditions of internally displaced individuals and eco-migrants, and others. The paper analyzes the primary mechanisms, achievements, and challenges of the social protection system in Georgia. Recommendations are presented in the direction of overcoming poverty and raising the population's standard of living.

Analysis Of Family Economic Resilience Against Early Marriage Practices In Mayang Village

This research aims to measure the economic resilience of families involved in early marriage in Mayang Village, Jember Regency. Using a mixed methods approach that combines quantitative and qualitative methods, data was collected through observation, interviews, documentation, and surveys of 50 respondents who met the criteria. Data analysis using multiple linear regression shows that family income, mother's education level, and access to social assistance programs significantly affect family economic resilience. The data processing in this research uses Descriptive Statistical Analysis to describe the economic characteristics of families, such as income, expenditure, and welfare indicators. The results of this study indicate that early marriage has a significant impact on the economic resilience of families in Mayang Village, as reflected in decreased income and increased health burdens. These findings also highlight the importance of women's economic empowerment programs and improved access to education as efforts to enhance the welfare of families involved in early marriage. Interventions targeting education, health, and changes in social norms are crucial for improving the economic resilience of families in Mayang Village.

INTEGRATED SOCIAL SERVICES AT SOCIAL WELFARE CENTER IN LEBAK SILIWANGI COBLONG DISTRICT BANDUNG CITY

This research aims to describe in depth the integration of social services in the social assistance program carried out by Puskesos Kelurahan Lebak Siliwangi Coblong Kota Bandung with the use of an integrative social services approach, i.e., coordination of services, cooperation, collaboration, and interprofessional. The results of the research obtained show that Puskesos Lebak Siliwangi has integrated social services into the social assistance program with the Social Services Office of Bandung City, the National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) of the city of Bandung, and the Rumah Amal Salman. The integration of services in the social assistance program carried out by Puskesos with the relevant parties has been done well, but there are obstacles experienced, such as inaccuracy of information of the recipients of assistance when communicating with the related parties, lack of special appreciation by the service provider, and no brainstorming in the collaboration carried on. All these problems lie on one focus of the problem, which is the lack of joint evaluation of the service process that has been ongoing.

Efektifitas Pelaksanaan Program Keluarga Harapan (PKH) di Kelurahan Gunung Sarik Kecamatan Kuranji Kota Padang Sumatera Barat

The Family Hope Program (PKH) has been running since 2011. PKH aims to break the chain of poverty, and improve the quality of human resources through education and health. PKH is also one of the social assistance programs relied on by the government through various new policies to ease the burden on PKH participants. The focus of the problem to be achieved in this study is how effective the Family Hope Program (PKH) is. The methodology used in this study is quantitative descriptive by collecting data using observations, interviews, and questionnaires. The data sources obtained include primary and secondary data. The results of research in the field show that PKH in Mount Sarik is not effective in its implementation. This is influenced by several inhibiting factors such as data, errors in data collection and determination of recipients, low awareness of PKH participants, and unproductive use of funds.

Socialization and Assistance in the Implementation of Social Assistance for the Dalegan Village Community, Gresik Regency

One of the government's efforts to improve the welfare of the Indonesian people, especially for people living below the poverty line, is the social assistance program. However, some people cannot utilize the social assistance program effectively due to a lack of understanding and access to information about the program. The purpose of community service activities is to increase public awareness and understanding of the various types of social assistance available so that community service activities can help the community in the process of applying for and receiving social assistance. It is expected that the social assistance program will be distributed on target through an approach and assistance involving village officials, community leaders, and direct assistance to village communities. Direct assistance to village communities can also be carried out to ensure that the social assistance distribution information system runs well. The results of community service activities can improve the welfare of village communities, reduce social disparities, increase the transparency of social assistance data, and improve the ability of village officials to manage social assistance. Community service activities can be a model for other villages in managing social assistance.

Empowerment of Ultra Micro MSME’s Through Financing of Sharia Non-Bank Financial Institutions

Economic growth, especially MSMEs, cannot be separated from the role of the microfinance institution sector. Financial institutions are intermediation institutions whose function is to connect parties who have excess funds with parties who lack funds. Based on Law No.10 of 1998 concerning amendments to Law No.7/1992 concerning banking, bank financial institutions consist of commercial banks and people's credit banks. The Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Indonesia, issued Ultra Micro Financing Products (UMI) which are The advanced stage program from the social assistance program to business independence targets micro businesses at the lowest levels, which cannot yet be facilitated by banking through People's Business Credits. UMI is a maximum financing facility of IDR 20 million per customer group and is distributed by non-bank financial institutions (LKBB). This research was carried out in North Sumatra (SUMUT) with the aim of identifying differences between Ultra Micro (UMi) business actors before and after receiving financing assistance from sharia non-bank financial institutions. This research was carried out between June and August 2023. This research uses quantitative analysis methods. The Normality Test is carried out with the aim of finding out whether the data used in a regression model is normally distributed or not. If the distributed data is proven to be normal, this means that the sample used can represent the population used by the measurement. If the significant value is 0.05, it can be declared to have a normal distribution. From the results of research on the Empowerment of Ultra Micro MSMEs through Sharia Non-Bank Financial Institution Financing in North Sumatra before and after receiving Ultra Micro Financing (UMi): There is a development between daily income before and after financing. Sales revenue after getting financing is better than sales revenue before getting financing

Critical Study on Bekerja Program Implementation as Economic Empowerment: Sharia Economic Perspective

The research aims to assess BEKERJA program's effectiveness in reducing poverty in Salutambung Village by providing farm animals. It evaluates the program's impact on economic empowerment, food security, and its alignment with Islamic economic principles, while addressing challenges like resource misallocation and dependency. The research methodology involves qualitative analysis to evaluate the program's impact in Salutambung Village through interviews and observations as field research. Data collection includes examining economic empowerment, food security, collaboration with Social Affairs Department, and alignment with Islamic economic principles. The study concludes that the BEKERJA program effectively reduces poverty by providing livestock to needy households, enhancing economic empowerment and food security. The program's collaboration with the Social Affairs Department has improved community welfare and economic conditions. However, some social assistance programs, including BEKERJA, face challenges such as resource misallocation and lack of technical support. The research lacks analysis that could contribute to further improving BEKERJA program

Is the impact of the South African child support grant on childhood stunting robust? An instrumental variable evaluation

The Child Support Grant (CSG) is part of the South African Social Assistance Programme, which costs the country approximately 1.3% of GDP annually. Given the scale of this programme, it is important to assess whether it has had an impact on the long-term health outcomes of children. Extant literature on the impact of CSG on a child’s long run nutritional status as measured by the height-for-age relies on the optimistic assumption that estimation controls for all relevant variables (i.e. the ignorability assumption). Further existing analysis are based on older datasets (i.e. older waves of the National Income Dynamic Study (NIDS)). We examine the robustness of the results to bias due to unobserved variables, using more recent data (the 2014/2015 and 2017 NIDS). Using the possession of the necessary government-issued documentation to access the grant as an instrumental variable (IV) we find that existing results are robust to the IV framework. Further, acknowledging the limitation of the instrumental variable, we show that the result is robust to violation of various assumptions underlying the IV approach. We argue that while the CSG remains a crucial contributor to early childhood development in South Africa, there is a need to critically examine its impact on nutritional status given the importance of this variable for intergenerational transmission of poverty.

Nusantara Economic Hero Social Assistance Program as an Effort to Empower the Community in Kendari City

This research aims to find out the implementation and achievements of the Nusantara Economic Hero Social Assistance Program realized in Kendari City. The method used in this study is a qualitative descriptive method. The informants in this study were determined based on the Purposive Sampling technique. The data collection technique was carried out through interviews with the Coordinator of the Family Hope Program of the Kendari City Social Service, Social Assistants, and Beneficiaries of the Social Assistance Program of the Nusantara Economic Heroes, then the data was obtained through observation and docuemnation studies, the data obtained was then analyzed qualitatively with an interactive model consisting of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawn. The results of this study show that: 1) there are two categories of Nusantara Economic Heroes carried out in Kendari City, namely Regular Nusantara Economic Heroes and Independent Nusantara Economic Heroes; 2) the stages of empowerment of the Nusantara Economic Heroes in Kendari City are in accordance with the concept of empowerment stages proposed by Adi (2014) which consists of the Preparation Stage, Assessment Stage, Alternative Planning Stage of Programs or Activities, Action Plan Formulation Stage, Program Implementation Stage or Activity, Evaluation Stage, and Termination Stage; 3) the achievements of the Nusantara Economic Heroes program in Kendari City have been able to empower the beneficiaries, although there are still some beneficiaries who have not been able to maximize financial assistance from the Nusantara Economic Heroes.

The Urgency of Presidential Regulation No. 21 of 2024 in the Context of Social Assistance and Online Gambling in Indonesia

This study examines the urgency of Presidential Regulation No. 21 of 2024 in addressing the dual issues of social assistance distribution and online gambling in Indonesia through a normative juridical analysis. The regulation aims to enhance the efficiency and transparency of social assistance programs while implementing stringent measures to control the proliferation of online gambling. Key provisions include the establishment of a centralized database, digital payment systems, regular audits, and strict licensing requirements for online gambling platforms. The analysis reveals that these measures are well-aligned with existing laws and have the potential to significantly improve social welfare and mitigate the negative impacts of online gambling. However, successful implementation will require overcoming challenges such as bureaucratic resistance and technological infrastructure needs. The study underscores the regulation's pivotal role in promoting social welfare and provides insights for policymakers to further strengthen regulatory frameworks in these areas.