SHREVEPORT, La. – The application process to register for the public is underway Shreveport Universal Basic Income Program (Where).
The pilot program is a joint effort between the city, Caddo Parish, and the United Way of Northwest Louisiana. Interested participants can register www.shreveportla.gov Through January 17th.
110 families will be selected and eligible to receive $660 per month for one year. Shreveport residents who are single parents Those earning less than 120% of the federal poverty level will be eligible. The program defines a single parent as a mother, father, stepparent, grandparent, caregiver or legal guardian with a school-age child. The resident must be functionally unmarried, whether married or unmarried. If unmarried, the resident cannot live with a partner.
Mayor Adrian Perkins said, “An estimated 25% of citizens in Shreveport are living in poverty and a guaranteed income will empower recipients to meet their most urgent day-to-day needs and unforeseen expenses.” “The Center with resources in UBI Shreveport Financial Empowerment will create a catalyst for better educational outcomes, significant improvements in physical and mental health, a significant reduction in predatory debt and greater confidence in meeting basic needs.
Perkins joined Mayor for a Guaranteed Income in 2020. MGI is a coalition of mayors committed to advancing a federally guaranteed income – direct, recurring cash payments to the poor and middle class. A guaranteed income is a monthly, unconditional cash payment made directly to randomly selected families or individuals.
Shreveport City Council approved a proposal to receive $500,000 from MGI for the program. The Caddo Parish Commission approved an appropriation of $432,000 for the matching fund.
United Way’s Financial Empowerment Center will accept walk-ins Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for those who need assistance filling out applications.
Only on January 17th they will not be available.
Individual assistance will also be provided at the Airport Park Recreation Center on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and at the David Raines Recreation Center on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 12 noon.
If you are selected to participate you will be contacted approximately three weeks after the end of the application period.
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