How did people in the Victorian era treat the poor?

In the Victorian era, attitudes toward the poor were often shaped by a mix of charity and social stigma. Many viewed poverty as a moral failing, leading to a belief in the "deserving" versus "undeserving" poor, which influenced charitable efforts. While some individuals and organizations provided assistance through workhouses and soup kitchens, others advocated for reforms due to the harsh conditions faced by the impoverished. Overall, the treatment of the poor was marked by a combination of pity, judgment, and a growing awareness of social injustices.