the ancient romans had the best system of public welfare in the grain dole which, while it still had its fair share of issues over the years (especially in terms of the rich bribing their way into it despite not needing the assistance) the grain dole still helped rome's poorest citizens by supplementing a huge portion of their daily spending (which allowed them to actually buy other products they normally wouldn't be able to, stimulating the broader economy while also lessening the burden of the absolutely destitute). where modern welfare fails is its desire to be all-inclusive, taking care of a destitute person's living situation, food and healthcare all at once. this actually incentives people to avoid making just enough where they're stuck in a hellscape where they can't qualify for benefits but still aren't making enough to afford rent and food. i know dozens of people who are currently in that spot and many who have killed themselves as a result.
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