Stimulus News: 305 California Families Are Getting $500 — See Who Qualifies
A total of 305 families in Sonoma County, California are receiving a $500 check this month as part of the Pathway to Income Equity program. Recipients of the pilot program will receive a check each month for two years. Payments began in February, according to the program’s website.
According to the Sonoma County Administrator’s Office, officials will study the effect of guaranteed income on poverty and promoting economic mobility for families with young children. The program was developed by nonprofit group First 5 Sonoma County, and $5.4 million for the program was funded by the County of Sonoma in partnership with Santa Rosa, Petaluma and Healdsburg.
During the two-month application period, which began Sept. 1 and ended Oct. 31 of last year, the program received 6,450 online applications. Recipients were selected by lottery. The Sonoma County Administrator’s Office stated that to be eligible, a family must:
- Live in Sonoma County
- Have a household income of no more than 185% of the federal poverty level depending on the family size (approximately $51,338 or below for a family of four)
- Be pregnant and/or parenting a child under the age of 6
- Have experienced adverse economic impacts due to the pandemic, such as loss of employment, income, child care or housing
Take Our Poll: What Do You Plan To Use Your Tax Refund For?
“These payments will help families with young children who are often struggling under the double burden of the high costs of housing and child care — typically the two highest household expenses,” said Supervisor Chris Coursey, chair of the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. “The information we gain from this pilot program will help shape future efforts to improve the health and welfare of our community.”
More From GOBankingRates
- 5 Expensive Renovations Homeowners Always Regret
- Financial Insight in Your Inbox: Sign Up for GBR's Daily Newsletter
- 3 Ways to Recession Proof Your Retirement
- 7 Things You Must Do To Create a Plan for Your Money
