Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson Secures $5 Million to expand California’s Basic Income Pilot Program to Seniors

• Daniel Peeden
• [email protected]

Sacramento- Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson is pleased to announce the successful allocation of $5 million as Chair of the Budget Subcommittee on Human Services to expand California's Basic Income Pilot Program to cover seniors. This funding will provide grants to organizations dedicated to serving adults aged 60 and older, putting much-needed money directly into the pockets of seniors who struggle to meet their everyday needs.

According to the U.S. Census, the number of seniors aged 65+ living in poverty is on the rise. The Public Policy Institute of California reports that in early 2023, the poverty rate was notably higher for seniors (15.2%) compared to children (13.8%) and adults aged 18-64 (12.6%). This increase in senior poverty is alarming and underscores the urgent need for intervention.

With rising housing costs adding an extra burden on seniors, many of whom are on fixed incomes, the ability to afford basic necessities is severely compromised. This pilot program aims to alleviate that burden. If successful, there is hope to expand this basic income initiative to all seniors facing poverty in California.

"Our seniors deserve to live their lives with dignity and without the constant stress of financial instability," said Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson. "This $5 million appropriation is a critical step towards reducing poverty among our senior population. I am committed to continuing the fight for our seniors and ensuring they receive the support they need so that we stop the number of seniors falling into homelessness."

This program represents a significant step forward in the efforts to combat senior poverty in California. Together, a difference can be made to provide seniors with the security and dignity they deserve.

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