Abstract
This invited article examines findings from lower profile studies suggesting another side of the bipartisan declaration that America’s experiment with welfare reform has been a resounding success. The authors draw on national survey data, studies by state and private research institutions, and available figures from informal community based monitoring projects. Findings reveal evidence of an escalation of inadequately paid employment, an increase in extreme nationwide childhood poverty, signs of mounting family hardship, and challenges affecting the survival and well-being of this vulnerable population leaving welfare.