Families in child welfare system to receive cash stipend through Illinois pilot program

(WIFR) - The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and Brightpoint launches the nation’s largest guaranteed income pilot program for families involved in the child welfare system.

The Empower Parenting with Resources (EmPwR) program will evaluate the impact of cash stipends on family stability, wellbeing and future involvement in the child welfare system.

“Caring for children and families and doing what we can to prevent their entry into DCFS is one of our key priorities,” says Heidi E. Mueller, director of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. “We are proud to support this innovative study that seeks a solution to keep children with their families and keep families stable, so children can grow up in their own communities with the people they love.”

EmPwR offers a monthly cash stipend of at least $100 a month for 12 months without restrictions. The stipend amount depends on the size of the household and location.

Researchers will compare the outcomes from 400 families to a control group of 400 families receiving standard support from Brightpoint to see if the stipend enhances stability and prevents child neglect.

Enrollment is scheduled to begin this fall.

For more information, visit their website.

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