Program Description
The Alameda City Council directed $4.6 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding to launch Rise Up Alameda, the City’s first-ever guaranteed income pilot program that provided $1,000 per month to 150 low-income Alameda households over a two-year period. The goals of Rise Up Alameda were to reduce economic instability for program participants, help to change local narratives and perceptions surrounding poverty and the provision of public benefits, and help to support and inform the national discussion regarding public benefits and anti-poverty policies.
Why Guaranteed Income?
Guaranteed income (GI) programs are distinct from other financial assistance programs in that they provide direct financial assistance with no restrictions. Participants can use GI payments to meet their individual needs rather than being limited to specific expense categories. This flexibility is unique and empowers recipients to make financial decisions in a way that best meets their basic needs, allowing for dignity and self-determination.
Research indicates that GI programs increase spending on education and training, improve food security, and improve measures of well-being among the recipients. The City of Stockton’s pilot program is perhaps the most well-known local example that demonstrated increased financial stability among the recipients. With scientifically proven success, interest in GI programs is growing and Rise Up Alameda is one of over 200 cities and local jurisdictions across the country that are conducting or have recently conducted GI pilot programs.
Rise Up Alameda was made possible by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, a one-time allocation. The program has concluded and there are no plans for another guaranteed income program at this time. If you have any questions, please email gi@alamedaca.gov.
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