Columbus leaders are considering a test program to offer $500 a month in direct assistance to residents in need.
Why it matters: Many Columbus residents struggle to make ends meet, even those holding full-time employment.
State of play: If approved by Council, the city will invest $2.5 million into the Economic Mobility Accelerator Program benefitting 200 local households.
- Qualifying residents would need to earn more than the federal poverty level, but less than the Central Ohio cost of living.
- For example, that’s $15,060-30,084 annually for an individual or $31,200-91,284 annually for a family of four.
Between the lines: Recipients would also need to participate in one of six job training and career services programs from organizations that will also administer the funds: Alvis , Columbus Urban League , Goodwill Columbus , New Directions Career Center , RISE Center/Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority and the United Way of Central Ohio .
- Each participant will receive financial literacy training and a $500 savings account through the Financial Empowerment Center .