Chicago Resilient Communities Pilot

Direct cash assistance has been proven to be an effective method for governments to stabilize households financially, reduce material hardships such as hunger, improve health and education outcomes for children, and even to increase employment.

Through the CRCP, 5,006 low-income Chicagoans across the city are receiving $500 per month for twelve months, with no strings attached. This is the largest monthly cash assistance pilot operating in the country by number of households served, making Chicago a leader in testing bold antipoverty solutions.

The need in Chicago is great. Even prior to the pandemic, 17% of Chicagoans lived in poverty, and 44% of households could not afford basic needs. During the open, citywide application period, more than 176,000 residents applied for a chance to participate. Applications were subjected to a randomized selection lottery, and the final households completed a rigorous vetting process to confirm their eligibility. The eligibility requirements were to be a current Chicago resident aged 18+, with total household income of no more than 250% of the Federal Poverty Level ($57,575 per year for a household of three), who had experienced a negative economic impact from COVID-19.)

To stay informed about the pilot, including research updates, visit www.chicago.gov/cashpilot