Why did hoover refuse to supply direct relief to individuals suffering from the depression?

President Herbert Hoover refused to supply direct relief to individuals during the Great Depression primarily due to his belief in limited government intervention and the importance of individual self-reliance. He thought that direct aid would undermine personal responsibility and create dependency on the government. Instead, he favored voluntary measures and local assistance, believing that communities and businesses should provide support. This approach ultimately proved insufficient in addressing the widespread suffering caused by the economic crisis.