Columbia County, New York is launching a two-year pilot program to give some low-income residents a guaranteed income. The program, a partnership between the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation (BTCF) and Greater Hudson Promise Neighborhood (GHPN), will distribute a total of $504,000.
Who Gets the Money?
42 single parents or caregivers of children aged six and under will receive $500 a month for two years. Participants will be chosen through a lottery; applications are open until July 1st. To qualify, applicants must live in Columbia County and have a household income below 80% of the 2025 Area Median Income (AMI). For a single parent with one child, this means an income below $72,150.
Why This Program?
The program aims to improve financial stability for struggling families. BTCF highlights the significant challenges faced by single mothers and their children in the county. They cite statistics showing a large income gap between single-mother households and married-couple families, making it incredibly difficult for single mothers to afford basic necessities like housing and childcare. The cost of childcare, in particular, is highlighted as a major burden.
The Big Picture
This initiative is based on research showing that direct, unconditional financial support can significantly benefit single mothers and their children, leading to improved health, happiness, and school readiness. The program hopes to demonstrate the positive impact of guaranteed income on families in Columbia County.
