The COVID-19 pandemic magnified many long-standing health and economic inequities in the community. In response, Harris County is investing $20.5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to address economic inequity and reduce poverty. Uplift Harris, the county’s first guaranteed income program, will distribute $500 per month for 18 months to eligible households.
The pilot will serve residents of two cohorts. The first cohort includes residents who live within the top 10 high-poverty zip codes in Harris County. The second cohort includes priority populations under ACCESS, a coordinated and client-centered safety net service delivery model administered by Harris County Public Health. Participants of both cohorts will be randomly selected through a lottery process. Through initiatives like Uplift Harris, Harris County is committed to creating positive, lasting change in our community by addressing economic disparities and supporting those most in need.