[QuiEgo]

I grew up poor in the US. It was not super awesome, but not as bad as the article would make you fear. The public schools (and activities tied to them) were great, even in my "bad" district. Libraries were everywhere and very accessible, and the libraries in my schools were giant and frequently used. I never went hungry a day in my life, at times thanks to food stamps. It was possible to find cheap enough housing to survive on low income without government aid.

The biggest problem, by far, was medical care. I didn't see a dentist for the first time until I was in my 20s. Any medical problem felt like a disaster that could put us on the street if not managed carefully. I'm very envious of Canada on this front.

Interestingly, I have a similar feeling of gratitude to the US the author has to Canada. Food stamps, and eventually tuition wavers and scholarships, let me break out of poverty. I'm so, so grateful I had those opportunities.

Like the author, I feel we could do a hell of a lot better in a lot of ways (especially lately!), but the core we have is still pretty dang good and I still feel lucky for having access to it.