Jane Addams to Harriet Elizabeth Vittum, April 20, 1910

My dear Miss Vittum:-

I think there is no doubt that poor people spend very large and disproportionate amounts upon funerals. My experience has been that it depends largely upon the amount of insurance money which is available. The undertaker is apt to get it all even when it is as high as $150 or $250, no matter what is the destitution of the family. It is of course almost impossible for them at the moment not to spend all that is available in their desire to show affection and respect for the dead. I do not know how far legislation can reach this matter although the Swiss have of course coped with it very successfully.

Sincerely yours,

Jane Addams [signed]