I assume we're talking about the Jesus guys and not friends that say you're not sympathetic here.

Yes, in Delaware and PA actually the minimum waitperson page is $2.73. Laws are usually in place so that if you don't earn actual minimum wage with tips, the employer must pay the difference, however I imagine that is a difficult thing to pursue (much like food stamps). I can understand that not being tipped makes a person bitter and sad as a result. Another phenomenon I've witnessed that arises out of a lack of tips from perceived groups of people can be a rise in generalizations and stereotypes made about those people (for example, "black people don't tip") which I think unfortunately leads to cycles of negative feedback and behavior. One should tip, and if one cannot, one should not eat out - that is the opinion I hear from my waitperson relatives and friends.

I think the article is fairly well-written and could be a lot worse in terms of "woe is me." I agree. I'm glad to hear your family is doing more successfully although of course sounds like there is still a lot in front of you.