Diane - until you can support them, please stop having children.
I cant believe it - 4 children - because I chose a path in the arts without guarantees, I didnt have any.
A better plan is to make injectable contraception like Depo Provera mandatory with quarterly visits when picking up checks or benefits reviews. If they cannot feed themselves, they cannot be allowed to have more children. If they get back on their feet, they can take back their fertility.