The speakers lined up at the Austin City Council meeting in August 2023. One after another, they testified about the impact of the city’s guaranteed income pilot on their lives.

Bertha Hernandez said, “I was one of the recipients of the guaranteed income program, and I would say what a great blessing it was in my life…I hope that these funds are granted again to continue helping families in need.”

That day, the City Council approved Family Stabilization Grants, which are set to launch in late spring or early summer of 2024. The $1.3 million in funding will  provide cash grants of $1,000 a month to 85 families for one year. 

Our victory in Austin is an example of UpTogether’s work in 2023, highlighted in our Annual Impact Report. We demonstrated the power of direct cash investments and partnered with our members and community organizations to convince the City of Austin to continue providing the  grants to families. 

UpTogether invested nearly $18 million in more than 26,000 individuals and families in 2023.

Among UpTogether members who responded to surveys:

• 24% increased housing security, decreasing risk of eviction.
• 43% led, organized, or facilitated activities, programs, or initiatives to strengthen their communities.
• 100% used their investment for basic needs such as housing, food, utilities, and childcare.

The Impact Report highlights our work across the country investing in families to make it easier for them to change their lives and change policies. We hope you give it a read and join us in working for a United States where everyone can be seen and invested in for their strengths.