 In this scenario, Walden residents who were unable to meet their basic needs still worked for their food, clothing, and shelter, but they did so in their community. The town didn't send them away against their will. Still, this model of local welfare, it really depended on who was in charge. Forrest says Gertrude Strong, the overseer of the poor, had a lot of discretion in her position. Gertie was an angel to most people.