In a response to the challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, Pittsburgh Mayor Tom Reynolds is proposing a new initiative aimed at supporting Black women in the community. The city plans to implement a pilot program called One Pittsburgh, which will provide 200 participants with monthly cash payments of $500 for two years, totaling $12,000 per participant. This initiative specifically targets 100 African American women, alongside 100 other individuals facing financial difficulties, food insecurity, and employment challenges.
The funding for this program will come from the American Rescue Plan, utilizing $2.5 million allocated to Pittsburgh from the federal government. This initiative, known as the Assured Cash Experiment (ACE), aims to alleviate the financial burdens that disproportionately affect African American communities, where 85% of individuals living in poverty are Black.
The hope is that these guaranteed funds will not only provide immediate financial relief but also positively influence mental health and reduce chronic stress associated with economic instability. A study from the University of Pittsburgh in 2019 indicated a direct correlation between economic stability and improved life outcomes for Black residents, including increased life expectancy and educational opportunities.
In collaboration with the Black Political Empowerment Project, a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting African American communities, the program seeks to address systemic issues related to poverty. The local nonprofit OnePGH will manage the distribution of funds and will reach out to eligible families. Program director Lisa Carter is optimistic about launching the initiative by year’s end, allowing recipients to access their funds via a debit card for flexible use.
Despite the program’s potential benefits, experts, including author and community advocate Mia Johnson, emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach that includes financial literacy education to ensure the long-term success of recipients. While this initiative serves as a vital step toward economic empowerment, it is recognized as a temporary measure addressing a much larger systemic issue.
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In summary, Pittsburgh’s new cash assistance initiative aims to provide financial relief to Black women and other residents facing economic hardships. Funded by the American Rescue Plan, this program hopes to foster economic stability and improve mental health, while also emphasizing the importance of comprehensive support and education to ensure lasting change.
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