As a mother of two, I can truly empathize with the challenges faced by parents featured in the documentary about guaranteed income programs across the country. Whether it’s a father caring for a child with autism or a mother coping with the consequences of domestic violence, their stories resonate with me deeply.
“I, too, survived domestic violence, and it had a profound impact on every aspect of my life,” Lahey shared.
A guaranteed income program in San Diego proved to be a life-changing opportunity for her. It provided her with a sense of rejuvenation and a fresh start. This initiative offers individuals like her unconditional financial support, allowing them to experience the benefits of financial stability without any limitations or requirements.
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Local nonprofit Jewish Family Service (JFS) of San Diego is currently conducting a trial of four guaranteed income programs, which have already made a significant impact on 2,800 households. A combination of federal, state, and county funds supports these programs. Two of the initiatives involve providing families with monthly payments of $500 for two years.
Lahey participated in the “Recovery Action Fund for Tomorrow,” a program that provides a one-time cash payment of $4,000 to families who are at risk of becoming homeless.
Lahey expressed that she didn’t have to struggle and work hard to afford the additional luxuries in life. She specifically mentioned things like enjoying a Thanksgiving dinner and buying Christmas presents.
According to a recent JFS report, the participants used the money to pay for various necessities like food, housing, and transportation.
According to Khea Pollard, the director of economic mobility and opportunity for JFS, families experience reduced stress levels and improved family cohesion on a psychological level.
Guaranteed income programs have been put into action in various cities across the country.
Former Mayor of Stockton, California, Michael Tubbs, was crucial in developing the programs that other cities are now adopting.
Stockton Mayor, Michael Tubbs, highlighted that the implementation of a universal basic income did not result in people working less. On the contrary, he pointed out that in Stockton, individuals were able to increase their working hours, transitioning from part-time to full-time employment.
Tubbs is hopeful that the federal government will implement it similarly as they do with the child tax credit.
According to Tubbs, it became apparent that financial instability is interconnected with other insecurities such as food, housing, and personal care. He emphasized that government officials and bureaucrats cannot fully comprehend and address the diverse needs and priorities of individuals when it comes to managing their finances.
Lahey is getting closer to turning her dream of owning her own business into a reality. She wants to sell Puerto Rican desserts.
“It’s not just a handout, it’s a hand-up. It helps me recognize that there is something more to aspire to,” Lahey expressed.
JFS is currently tabulating the recently concluded programs but noted that it will take some time to analyze the data and determine the success rate.
San Diego County has introduced an innovative program aimed at preventing families from entering the foster care system. According to a spokesperson, this initiative is designed to offer support and resources to families to keep them united and avoid the need for foster care.
“The Jewish Family Service report indicates that the preliminary results of the pilot program are promising for numerous recipients. This program is one of the few nationwide initiatives specifically targeting foster care prevention. The data collected from this program will be thoroughly analyzed, and the findings will be shared with the public soon.”
