Guaranteed Income Test Initiative by Uplift Harris: Pilot Scheme Underway
Fresh Spin:
Hey there! Sharing some exciting news about a new program called Uplift Harris that's hitting the streets of Harris County. This badass initiative, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, aims to give a helping hand to eligible households, providing them with a juicy $500 each month for a whopping 18 months!
The goal? To decrease income inequality, stamp out generational poverty, boost self-sufficiency, and establish a kickass framework for anti-poverty programs in Harris County.
Starting from January 12th, 2024, till February 2nd, applicants can apply for this program. But, hold up, once the application window closes, both public applicants and those enrolled in the ACCESS Harris program will be randomly selected to receive the dough. So, don't stress about applying on day one, everyone's got a fair shot!
One pro tip for those already enrolled in ACCESS Harris – head over to their website for that exclusive application link.
Now, who's eligible? To qualify, you've gotta be a Harris County resident living in one of the specified zip codes, aged 18 or older, with a household income beneath 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, and a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Not sure where you fit? Fret not, my friend; just make sure you're below incomes like these:
- Individuals: $29,160
- A family of 2: $39,440
- A family of 3: $49,720
- A family of 4: $60,000
- A family of 5: $70,280
Keep in mind, only one member of each household can apply. Repeat applications will torch your chances, so play it cool and submit just one.
Application time! Opening on January 12th on the Harris County website, it's easy to apply online using any smartphone, computer, or tablet. Struggling to get connected? Swing by your local library, and they'll help ya out.
The application shouldn't take longer than 30 minutes, filled with questions about you and your life. Plus, don't forget to provide an email or phone number, a government-issued ID (like a driver's license or passport), and a selfie. Following the application, you may need to provide proof of residency and income, so be on the lookout for messages from GiveDirectly and AidKit for more info.
Keep your fingers crossed, because after the applications close, they'll sift through them to determine who gets the much-needed funds. If you're selected, prepare to receive your first payment by the end of April 2024, either through direct deposit or a prepaid card. For more deets and updates, check out the Uplift Harris website!
Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, the program has faced a series of legal challenges and political opposition. In the end, it was ended before distributing funds to eligible families, with the funds being redirected to other initiatives like rental assistance, homeless outreach, and reducing food insecurity in Harris County. But hey, hold on to hope, and who knows, maybe this program will make a comeback someday!
In the unfortunate turn of events, eligible residents of Harris County who met the criteria such as being a US citizen or lawful permanent resident, residing in specified zip codes, being 18 years or older, and having a household income beneath 200% of the Federal Poverty Level may have missed out on the opportunity to apply for the Uplift Harris program. The program, which aimed to provide a monthly stipend of $500 for 18 months to boost self-sufficiency and combat poverty, unfortunately faced legal challenges and political opposition, resulting in the funds being redirected to other initiatives like rental assistance, homeless outreach, and reducing food insecurity in Harris County.
However, for future reference, a government-issued ID like a driver's license or passport, as well as proof of residency and income, would usually be required when applying for such programs. Additionally, applicants may need to provide a selfie and an email or phone number as part of the application process.
