El Monte’s Guaranteed Income Program Making Strides in Alleviating Pandemic Hardships
El Monte’s Guaranteed Income Program Yields Promising Results for Struggling Families Amid COVID-19
According to HEY SOCAL, in El Monte, a city in California a program to help families struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic is showing promising results. The city along with the RAND Corporation and USC Sol Price School of Public Policy started a pilot program in April 2023. The goal was to give $500 each month to 125 selected residents facing economic difficulties because of the pandemic. These residents were mostly single mothers with children under 18 years old living in El Monte and earning below the poverty level.
The guaranteed income program aimed to improve the lives of these families by reducing stress, improving housing stability and enhancing overall well-being. Early findings show positive changes. Participants reported feeling less stressed and anxious with fewer depressive symptoms. They also said they were able to spend the money on important things like food, rent, and school supplies. Dr. Emma Aguila from USC Sol Price School of Public Policy says these results are similar to other programs like this across the country.
El Monte’s Commitment to Resident Well-being: Financial Assistance Program Extends Support Beyond Payments
City Manager Alma Martinez says the success of the program shows how important it is to support residents during tough times. The participants started receiving $500 per month in July 2023 and they’ll get their final payment in May 2024. As the program continues the city plans to offer workshops on managing money wisely. They’ll also check in with the participants later to see how the program has affected them in the long run. This program in El Monte is proving that giving direct financial help can make a real difference in people’s lives.