Instead of the patchwork of social programs that can vary from place to place, all Americans should be provided with a basic income so that no one can fall below the poverty line. Give people money and they, not the government, can choose how to spend it. They know what they need.
According to Matt Bruenig and Elizabeth Stoker, "By sending every adult and child $3,000 a year, the government could achieve historic poverty reductions. Think of it as Social Security for all, not just the elderly."