A new guaranteed income program in Sacramento County, California is set to provide much-needed relief to low-income families starting in mid-June 2025. Known as the Sacramento Family First Economic Support Pilot (FFESP), this pilot initiative is designed to help families experiencing financial hardship—especially those caring for young children under age 5.
This monthly payment program goes beyond short-term assistance. It aims to create long-term financial stability and improve quality of life for families who have been historically underserved, including African American, Native American, and other marginalized communities.
What Is FFESP and Why Does It Matter?
The FFESP was developed to support families facing poverty and economic uncertainty, especially after the financial toll caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike traditional aid, the program focuses on guaranteed income—unrestricted monthly payments that families can use as they see fit.
This support helps cover daily essentials like:
- Rent or housing costs
- Food and groceries
- Utility bills
- Childcare and transportation
By providing predictable monthly income, the FFESP hopes to reduce financial stress, support better mental health for parents, and create a more stable home for early childhood development.
How Much Will Families Receive?
Families chosen to participate in the FFESP will receive $725 per month, with no strings attached. This payment is given as direct cash assistance, so recipients can use it in whatever way helps them most.
This funding is especially helpful for families who are:
- Caring for children under 5 years old
- Living under 200% of the federal poverty level
- Struggling with job insecurity or low wages
Who Will Receive the Payments?
The program is limited to 200 families, who will be randomly selected from eligible applicants. The selection process will take place between April and May 2025, and payments are expected to begin in mid-June 2025.
To be considered, families must live in Sacramento County and meet the income eligibility guidelines. The program gives special attention to racial equity by focusing on families from communities that have long been underserved by government programs.
Why Guaranteed Income Matters
Guaranteed income programs like FFESP are gaining popularity across the U.S. because they:
- Offer flexibility and dignity—families decide how to use the funds
- Help reduce anxiety and financial stress
- Allow parents to invest in childcare, work training, or health
- Improve mental health and well-being
- Help create opportunities for long-term success
Several cities have launched similar programs, and early results show positive impacts on stability, employment, and family life.