FAQs
When NCJW|LA applied to be one of the seven sites selected to do a Guaranteed Income Pilot with the California Department of Social Services aimed at pregnant people, we knew there was an opportunity to show that Guaranteed Income payments could significantly improve pregnancy health outcomes. Poverty is highly stress-inducing and can have harmful effects on pregnancies; NCJW|LA is grateful for the opportunity to show how cash can reduce stress and improve the lives of pregnant people and their families.
Guaranteed income is a set amount of money people can rely on over a period of time. Unlike Universal Basic Income, Guaranteed Income is for a set group of people based on geography or other criteria. It is based on the belief that people are experts in their own lives. The goal of guaranteed income is to help alleviate disparities and inequalities by creating a social safety net.
Pilot participants will be provided an optional benefits counseling session as part of the program enrollment process. The session will help participants understand the impact of the cash payments on their eligibility for other benefits they may already receive, and enable participants to make an informed decision about pilot participation. Waivers have been obtained through the California Department of Social Services and the following benefits will not be impacted: CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and CalWORKs.
No. Pregnancy status at any time after enrollment will not impact program participation status in any way.
Community Support Specialists at NCJW|LA can help individuals apply. Applications will be completed on AidKit, an online platform.
Yes. This program is open to all Los Angeles County residents regardless of citizenship status.
No, the cash assistance does not need to be paid back. There is no fee to apply or join P.A.I.D. We believe the best person to determine how an individual should spend his/her/their money is oneself. We believe people can manage their own finances to achieve economic stability.
If you are eligible for the program but do not get chosen to be a part of the treatment group ($1000/month) you are still eligible to be a part of a control group receiving $20/month.
Being in a control group is an opportunity that will allow the California Department of Social Services and the Guaranteed Income Community to further understand the impact of not receiving unconditional cash. This input will allow us to advocate for guaranteed income as a method to address income disparity.
All participants will also be invited to participate in an array of supportive services.
