Whys it called benefit instead of charity?

Question

Whys it called benefit instead of charity?

Answer 1

If it's like a benefit auction, it just takes away some of the negative connotation that is associated with charity. There are some people who won't take charity even if they're really suffering.

Answer 2

Well, they are the only ones to benefit from it

Answer 3

yes your right it should be charity however some people simply could not survive if they did not get a little help its like robin hood take from the rich and give to the poor!!

Answer 4

It benefits the people you are helping!

Answer 5

Charity is something given for any reason the giver likes. I can choose to give charity. I don't have a choice about paying tax and NI which are used to pay for state benefits. The welfare state began as a safety net to provide for people who were unable to provide for themselves. It lessens the need for charities to pick up the slack and provide for those in need. Benefits are something we are all entitled to should we need them. Nobody is entitled to charity handouts. I've never claimed any state benefits but I have no problem with them being there, I can't be sure I will never need them in the future and am glad that if I do need help that I will be entitled to that help. I would hate to have to beg for charity.

Answer 6

so it takes away the stigma of it, i think they should name it "hand outs"

Answer 7

Because some people have worked all their lives & contributed tens of thouands of pounds into the "Benefit" system, before becoming ill, the same reason it is not called "charity" when YOU need medical treatment.

Answer 8

I hope you are never in a situation where you need to claim state benefits, but if you are then you will understand the difference. A charitable hand out is given at the discretion and volition of the donor; state benefits are provided from a fund into which all taxpayers have contributed during their lives and is there to support those who are not able to support themselves. It is means tested and only available to those who can prove a need.

Answer 9

Because charity is given to those in need at the discretion of the trustees of the charity whereas benefit claimants believe they have a right to it whether they need it or not.

Answer 10

Because it's from a fund that most people have paid into at some point

Answer 11

a benefit is what you do/have but the charity is who receives the moneys or donations given.