In the beginning of the document, Addams highlights the harsh conditions families had to endure in tenants: “...utterly dependent upon the city administration for the conditions which render decent living possible.” No matter what strides the mothers made in their individual households, the living conditions could only noticeably be bettered by the Public Works Department (the city itself).
Addams also point out some of the issues in the school system, for example, little to no playgrounds or kindergartens present. She says that having women as members of educational