Which societal initiative aimed to alleviate poverty by providing community services to urban populations?

Settlement houses were crucial community centers established in urban areas during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily aimed at alleviating poverty among the urban poor. These institutions provided a range of services, including education, healthcare, childcare, employment assistance, and recreational activities, helping to integrate immigrants and the impoverished into American society.

The settlement house movement was significantly influenced by social reformers like Jane Addams, who founded Hull House in Chicago. These centers focused not only on addressing the immediate needs of the community but also on advocating for broader social reforms, addressing issues such as labor rights and women's suffrage. This multifaceted approach aimed to enhance the quality of life for those living in urban poverty while fostering community involvement and empowerment.

In contrast, community service projects, public welfare programs, and Social Security initiatives are broader terms and concepts. While they contribute to social welfare, they do not specifically define the community-focused, grassroots model represented by settlement houses, which aimed to build relationships within neighborhoods to enact change and provide direct support to urban populations.