What was a common consequence faced by people due to the economic troubles during the Great Depression?

During the Great Depression, a significant consequence for many individuals and families was a reliance on government support for basic needs. This period was marked by widespread unemployment and poverty, which left many unable to afford essential goods such as food, housing, and healthcare. As the economy collapsed, the government implemented various programs to provide relief, such as the New Deal initiatives in the United States, which aimed to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the economic downturn.

Many people turned to soup kitchens, food banks, and government assistance programs to survive, highlighting the stark contrast to the stability and prosperity that characterized the years prior to the Great Depression. This reliance on government support became a defining feature of the era, as countless Americans faced desperate circumstances and sought help to meet their most basic needs.

In contrast, the other options illustrate situations that were not representative of the economic realities during this time. There was a significant decline in home ownership rates, factory employment was generally low, and luxury spending decreased sharply due to the widespread financial hardship experienced by the populace.