Why do democrats want more social programs?

Democrats historically supported state programs, such as 'Food Stamps', financial assistance, programs to support and assist single mothers in returning to the "employed" population, etc. Seems as though there has been a complete turnaround. Republicans, on the other hand, appear historically anti "social programs advocates. That's why I, and a number of my relatives usually voted a Democratic 'straight ticket.' Now it appears, as my father said 'prior to his passing, that now it is the time to vote as a REPUBLICRAT, meaning to "vote for the lesser of two evils," rather than the best man. Kinda' sad, wouldn't you say?