[mhalle]

A family of 5 making $50k per year is one lost job away from poverty in much of the US, which was much more likely during the pandemic without assistance. They remain economically vulnerable, probably chronically. A family of the same side making $200k per year is not on the border of poverty anywhere in the US.

Meanwhile, the public facilities used by both families such as parks were underfunded with the loss of tax revenue during the pandemic (and often before). Charitable giving is an opportunity to improve them without raising taxes. Without those inclusive civic institutions, those with means can go to private or for profit recreation and cultural options. Those who don't have nothing.

It is disheartening to hear that emergency public assistance would be used as a rationale to "obviate the need charitable contributions".