Illinois families are benefitting from a guaranteed income pilot program run by the California nonprofit UpTogether. With the support of a private donor, 52 families in Illinois are receiving $500 a month to spend as they see fit. The goal of the one-year pilot program, which launched in September 2024, is to demonstrate the effectiveness of direct cash payments in providing stability for families. Astar Herndon, the Midwest Partnership Director for UpTogether, shared that participants are using the income primarily for housing, indicating extreme housing burdens. Many of the families participating are below the federal poverty line, with a majority employed and working full-time. Bria Gregory, a Peoria mom of three, shared how the money helped her purchase coats for her kids and cover unexpected car repair expenses. UpTogether hopes to use the data from the pilot program to advocate for a new $90 million statewide guaranteed income program splitting funds between Chicago, Cook County, and downstate communities. The program aims to empower individuals to pursue education, secure transportation, and increase their earning power.
Source
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
