In this piece Graham Shelby describes applying for social assistance from a distinctly middle class perspective-- which is pretty unusual, but then his circumstances are unusual. He needs Medicaid after his triplets are born, but he doesn’t consider himself down and out or a member of the lower class. Shelby presents his need for social assistance as funny because it is so out of character for him. His main obstacle is the embarrassment and indignation at having to ask for help, and having to reconcile himself with the stereotypical image of a welfare recipient. He explains how lucky he was that his own parents were well off and were able to raise him middle class. He is determined that he and his children will always have the dreams and personality of the lucky, even when they lack money. In the end, this is a light musing on the nature of need and class. In the end being broke doesn’t change his sense of self and dignity. It would be nice if everyone could feel that way. This might be a helpful entry point into more in depth programming that covers welfare and poverty in America.