These wealthy women live in affluent Chicago suburbs like Glencoe and Lake Forest. They belong to a philanthropic organization and travel to impoverished neighborhoods to distribute money. Their charity stems from social expectations and parental admonishment rather than genuine empathy. They maintain a pristine, luxurious lifestyle funded by old money, purchasing expensive goods from brands like Spode and Chippendale.

She is an impoverished woman living in a dilapidated apartment in Chicago. She attempts to maintain her home by laying down printed newspaper for rugs and changing them when they get dirty. Her cramped living conditions and lack of resources horrify her wealthy visitors.

These young individuals live with their mother in a cramped apartment. Their large numbers overwhelm the visitors, who view their existence as a disqualification for financial assistance.

A soft-eyed feline living in the impoverished Chicago apartment. It stays among the potato peelings on the floor. Its presence adds to the disgust the visiting women feel toward the household.