West Cook News

President Toni Preckwinkle has announced the early results of the Cook County Promise Guaranteed Income Pilot, highlighting positive impacts on participants' financial stability and stress levels. The program provided $500 monthly to 3,250 households over two years, with funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). According to surveys by GiveDirectly, positive outcomes included increased financial security, improved mental health, and reduced stress.

In response to these findings, Preckwinkle has formed an advisory committee to steer the next stage of the county's guaranteed income initiatives. This phase aims to further economic stability and opportunities for residents. "This advisory committee will help us build future guaranteed income programming rooted in research, equity and dignity," stated Preckwinkle.

The program's evaluation, conducted by the Inclusive Economy Lab at the University of Chicago, will publish several reports in the coming months. The "First Look Report" will provide insights into participants' needs at the program's start, and a "Process Evaluation" will suggest improvements for future implementations. Additionally, the "Economic Impact Report" will analyze increased economic activities from program spending.

Emma Kelsey of GiveDirectly remarked, "This next chapter is a critical moment to reimagine how we support families by delivering direct cash that affirms the dignity, agency and potential of residents across the County." Carmelo Barbaro, Executive Director of the Inclusive Economy Lab, noted, "At a time when wealth inequality is increasing and inflation is still a burden for consumers, guaranteed income has gained prominence as a policy intervention."

The advisory committee will consist of policy experts and individuals with lived experiences to guide the planning and implementation of future programs. In collaboration with the Economic Security Project, Cook County has also initiated a storytelling cohort for participants to share their experiences. Participant Nikita Smith Jr. shared the personal impact, stating, "Getting those checks was like I jump-started adulthood."

With over 230,000 applications received, Cook County acknowledges the high demand for economic support. The county will continue updating the public as the advisory committee's work progresses and new evaluations are released.

For further details, visit the program's website at arpa.cookcountyil.gov/promise-guaranteed-income-pilot-program.

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