Abstract
In California, the cost of living is increasing, while families and mothers continue to find themselves within the cycle of poverty. This study analyzes qualitative data, collected through multiple interviews, to examine impacts of guaranteed income programs (GIPs). The interviewees were from various nonprofits, local government agencies, funders, and nonservice nonprofits who work directly with the populations impacted by GIPs. Through these interviews, the study furthers understanding around guaranteed income programs, while focusing on three research objectives – learning more about opportunities that arise from GIPs, the challenges these programs face, and participant community involvement. Stakeholders challenged the stigmatization of those in poverty, discussing opportunities mostly in terms of benefits households experience from GIP. Families were said to be able to pay off debts, create businesses, continue their education, and some mothers began to contact real estate agents. The study also found that the stigma of living in poverty posed a challenge to getting GIP interventions off the ground, and that these programs do not solve the issue of poverty entirely for recipients. The often-short duration of GIP payments, and their modest amounts, hinder impact. Therefore, continued research on GIPs and their impact they on participants and communities is needed. GIPs present promise toward a solution to create sustainable improvements in quality of life.