My point was that it isn't charity. Many of those programs (particularly functioning judiciary and basic research) easily produce more value than they cost. But they aren't welfare - despite the contrary assertion from the link.
Thus, dividing this type of spending by the number of people below the poverty line is confused and misleading.
My point was that it isn't charity.
Has no charity ever used the institution argument/strategy in its investments?
http://www.weeklystandard.com/blogs/over-60000-welfare-spentper-household-poverty_657889.html
60000 dollars per year per poor family, if the article is correct.