Welfare \Wel"fare`\, n. [Well + fare to go, to proceed, to happen.]

Well-doing or well-being in any respect; the enjoyment of health and the common blessings of life; exemption from any evil or calamity; prosperity; happiness.

How to study for the people's welfare. --Shak.

In whose deep eyes Men read the welfare of the times to come. --Emerson.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)