How Guaranteed Income Programs are Redefining Support for Those in Need

Marsha Jacobs
Published Dec 17, 2024


Everyone should have a place they can call home, but as the cost of living shoots up, many people find themselves at risk of being without a home. 

Guaranteed income programs give a helping hand by providing money directly to those who need it. This helps them pay for things like their housing, food, and travel costs.
 

What are Guaranteed Income Programs?


Guaranteed income is clever because it doesn't give money to everyone; it gives it specifically to the people who need it most. Maybe they're experiencing homelessness or they don't make much money. 

The amount can be between $500 to $1,000 each month. Already, in the U.S., there are more than 150 of these programs making a difference for homeless people or those close to homelessness.

The idea of guaranteed income isn't a new thing. Back in the 1960s and 70s, people began to suggest it as a way to fight poverty and big differences in wealth. 

The guaranteed income plans of today keep building on this idea, aiming to help those who often struggle more, such as people of color, those with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community.

Check out: 15 Cities Where It's Still Affordable to Rent
 

Benefits of Guaranteed Income


These programs are about more than handing out cash. They want to help people get a home without feeling bad or judged. Their goal is to make it easy for people to get help, cut down on unfair treatment in public aid, and be sure that everybody who needs help can get it. 

By seeing what works in these trial runs, those in charge can make welfare systems better and more helpful, ensuring that everyone can find and keep a safe place to live.
 

Conclusion


In the end, guaranteed income programs offer a new and respectful way to support people who don't have a secure place to live or are in danger of losing their home. 

It's not just about the money. It's about fairness and giving people the chance to live well, no matter where they come from or what they're facing in life.

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Find out if you're eligible for housing support here!

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