One of the most populated counties in the US is launching a guaranteed income pilot program aimed at helping families in need.
Known as the Family First Economic Support Pilot, Sacramento County’s Department of Child, Family and Adult Services (DCFAS) says $1.74 million will be disbursed to chosen applicants over the course of a year.
“It is a guaranteed income pilot for parents/legal guardians caring for Black/African American and/or American Indian/Alaska Native children 0-5 years of age, in certain zip codes of Sacramento County, who are under 200% of the federal poverty level. 200 randomly selected participants will receive $725.00 per month for 12 months.”
Applications for the Family First Economic Support Pilot guaranteed income program opened on September 30th and will close on October 13th. To qualify, applicants must not be enrolled in other government or privately funded guaranteed income programs.
“The first payment is expected to be issued December 15, 2024 and the last payment will be November 15, 2025.”
The free cash will be offered to successful applicants via a debit card or a bank account with no conditions attached on how the money can be spent.
“You are free to choose how to best spend the money to meet the needs of your family. You do not need to do anything to receive the guaranteed income, and you are not required to participate in any services. We will offer assistance to help connect you to other community-based organizations or services should you have a particular need or interest.”
The Family First Economic Support Pilot guaranteed income program is funded primarily through a grant provided by California’s state government as well as some private funding.
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