The pilot began in late 2023 and gave $500 per month for 18 months to more than 500 low-income St. Louis families with school-age children. It was one of many programs started with American Rescue Plan Act dollars.
A university research team evaluated the pilot using surveys, interviews, spending data and monthly credit records. Families reported fewer missed rent and utility payments, less food insecurity, and more ability to cover essentials and unexpected costs. Parents said the money helped with children’s education, activities and health needs.
There was a temporary pause in payments in 2024 that caused short-term problems, and the program has ended with no current plans to extend it.
Difficult words
- pilot — small trial program to test a new idea
- low-income — people or families with small monthly earnings
- evaluate — study something to see its resultsevaluated
- survey — short set of questions for many peoplesurveys
- utility — service such as electricity or water
- insecurity — not having enough food to eat
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How could $500 a month help children at school?
- What problems could a temporary pause in payments cause?
- Do you think a program like this should continue? Why or why not?
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