Commencement of New Guaranteed Income Program: Anticipating $17 Million Cash Handouts

Signups Open for New Guaranteed Income Program Offering $17 Million in Cash Handouts

A new pilot program offering guaranteed income is now accepting signups. Residents in Harris County, Texas, can apply for the program, which aims to distribute just over $17 million to 1,928 households facing financial difficulties.

To be eligible, households must have an income below 200% of the federal poverty line. Each selected household will receive $500 per month for a duration of 18 months. The program will serve two cohorts: residents living in the top 10 high-poverty zip codes in Harris County and priority populations under ACCESS, a safety net service model administered by Harris County Public Health.

The participants for both groups will be randomly chosen through a lottery process. The initiative was approved by Harris County last year and is funded by a $20.5 million grant from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). GiveDirectly, an international nonprofit organization, will administer the program, with the first payments expected to be distributed as early as March 2024.

Hot Take: New Guaranteed Income Program Offers Support to Struggling Households

Harris County’s new guaranteed income pilot program is a step towards providing financial assistance to households in need. By offering $500 per month for 18 months, the initiative aims to alleviate the burden on families facing financial challenges and living below 200% of the federal poverty line. The randomized selection process ensures fairness and equal opportunities for all eligible applicants.

This program not only provides immediate relief but also highlights the importance of exploring innovative approaches to support vulnerable communities. With funding from the American Rescue Plan Act, this initiative showcases how government grants can be utilized to make a positive impact on people’s lives. By partnering with GiveDirectly, an experienced nonprofit organization, Harris County is well-positioned to effectively distribute the funds and uplift households in need.