Photo: Giorgio Trovato | Unsplash
As part of a three-year, $125-million initiative aiming to provide relief for artists from the devastating financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, Creatives Rebuild New York’s guaranteed income program provided 2,400 New York artists with monthly payments of $1,000 for 18 months. Their preliminary findings reaffirm the powerful truth that so many guaranteed income pilots are sharing: cash works. They found that unrestricted payments meant artists could prioritize debt and savings payments while also paying their bills. Survey results indicate a 17% increase in “good mental and emotional health” among participants. With over 30% of participating artists identifying as caregivers, many reported the ability to provide care with less stress and more joy in their caregiving roles. Program participants interviewed for the article were deeply grateful for the support they received. They benefitted personally and professionally; many were able to help others. Participant Jacinta Bunnell said, “Guaranteed income is not just about individual financial stability — it’s shifting our focus to caring for one another and creating a more equitable society.”
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