Chicago is initiating a second round of monthly payments using $63 million from a relief fund to assist low-income residents, following the success of the initial program during the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to spend the remaining $372 million in federal relief funds by year-end.
Chicago Launches Another Round of Monthly Payments to Support Low-Income Residents
According to the published article in US Sun News, Chicago is starting a new round of monthly payments to help low-income residents. Mayor Brandon Johnson is using $63 million from a relief fund to give out these payments, which were first introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal is to spend the remaining $372 million in federal relief funds by the end of the year, so the city doesn’t have to return the money to the federal government.
The first round of payments was very popular, with over 176,000 people applying for the $500 monthly payments, even though only 5,000 families received them. The new round will likely have similar rules, requiring applicants to live in Chicago, be 18 or older, and earn at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Line. This program aims to help families who are still struggling after the pandemic.
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Chicago’s Budget Director Emphasizes the Importance of Effectively Utilizing Relief Funds
Furthermore, Budget Director Anette Guzman said it’s important to use the funds correctly to make sure they help the community and prevent any money from being sent back to the Treasury. This payment program is part of a bigger effort by the city to support people in need and invest in helpful projects.