What is social welfare policy?

Social welfare policy refers to policies designed to help the community. These policies mainly affect the needy. One such policy is universal healthcare. Government steps in and and becomes the single payer for the healthcare system, thus giving everyone in society healthcare. The United States provides subsidies to help people pay for healthcare.  
Another example of social welfare policy is subsidized housing. People who make below a certain amount of money can qualify for housing and utilities assistance. This is done in an attempt to provide a sufficient standard of living for everyone in the community. These people also often qualify for nutrition assistance (food stamps) as well as money for the care of children, which in the United States is known as WIC programs.
Social welfare policies can be controversial. Some conservatives see them as governmental overreach that does not encourage people to better themselves. Some liberals, on the other hand, see these programs as necessary for helping people who work in low-paying jobs that society needs in order to function. Social welfare policy is one of the most divisive issues in politics today.