Newsbreak: Chicago’s New Program Offers Relief to Struggling Domestic Workers and Undocumented Residents

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced on February 2, 2023, that the second round of the Chicago Resiliency 2.0 program has started. The program is offering a one-time direct payment of up to $500 to thousands of struggling Americans. Specifically, according to a report by The US Sun on February 3, 2023, the payments are for up to 7,000 domestic workers and 10,000 undocumented citizens who missed out on federal stimulus checks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

To be eligible for the payment, applicants must be over 18, live in Chicago, and have a household income at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Line, as reported by The US Sun. Additionally, a domestic worker who was paid for carrying out services in another home in the last 12 months is also eligible.

There are no strings attached to the payment, as beneficiaries can use the money as they wish. The payments will be issued via direct deposit or in the form of a debit card. Americans will know if they will receive the payment within 30 days of submitting their application.

The mayor emphasized that the program represents the continued commitment of her administration to ensure that the hardest-hit residents, including domestic workers and undocumented residents, get access to recovery funds. The Chicago Resiliency Fund for Families and Individuals will issue a one-time payment that is not recurring.