According to Laist News, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors is considering expanding the “Breathe” guaranteed income program to include 200 former foster youth, aiming to address income inequality and provide support to those in need.
Proposal to Include Additional 200 Former Foster Youth in Program
The “Breathe” program was launched in January 2021 to provide $1,000 per month for two years to 150 low-income families in Compton, California. It aims to help participants achieve financial stability and improve their overall well-being by providing a guaranteed basic income..
Advocacy groups and policymakers have endorsed the expansion of the “Breathe” initiative to cover ex-foster youths, offering them financial support and a sense of safety to prioritize their education and other crucial areas of their lives.
The proposed expansion of the “Breathe” program is an important step towards addressing income inequality and supporting those in need. By studying the long-term impacts of guaranteed basic income, researchers can provide insights into the potential of such programs to alleviate poverty and improve outcomes for vulnerable populations based from LACOUNTY.GOV.
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Programs Aim to Uplift Communities and Address Income Inequality
The “Breathe” program is one of several guaranteed income programs launched in California in recent years. South L.A., Long Beach, and El Monte have all launched their own programs, providing financial assistance to low-income residents, single mothers, and other vulnerable groups. The programs are seen as a way to uplift communities and address income inequality, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic.
Guaranteed income programs have received bipartisan support, with proponents arguing they provide a safety net and stimulate local economies. Critics argue they are too expensive and discourage people from working. However, they are likely to continue to gain traction as policymakers seek to address income inequality.
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