on the dole

Dole \Dole\, n. [AS. d[=a]l portion; same word as d[=ae]l. See
   {Deal}.]
   1. Distribution; dealing; apportionment.
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            At her general dole,
            Each receives his ancient soul.       -- Cleveland.
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   2. That which is dealt out; a part, share, or portion also, a
      scanty share or allowance.
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   3. Alms; charitable gratuity or portion.
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            So sure the dole, so ready at their call,
            They stood prepared to see the manna fall. --Dryden.
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            Heaven has in store a precious dole.  --Keble.
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   4. A boundary; a landmark. --Halliwell.
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   5. A void space left in tillage. --[Prov. Eng.]
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   {Dole beer}, beer bestowed as alms. [Obs.]

   {Dole bread}, bread bestowed as alms. [Obs.]

   {Dole meadow}, a meadow in which several persons have a
      common right or share.

   {on the dole}, receiving financial assistance from a
      governmental agency, such as a welfare agency; as, after
      his unemployment benefits ran out, his family was on the
      dole for a year.
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