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The Chicago Future Fund (CFF) is EAT’s very own guaranteed income pilot program for formerly incarcerated individuals.

 

EAT launched the CFF to explore what direct cash payments of $500/month can do for 30 system-impacted residents of West Garfield Park. There are no work requirements or restrictions on how the money can be spent. We only ask participants to provide regular self-reported updates on the variables we’re tracking. 

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To keep the selection process fair and maintain integrity, we randomly selected 30 individuals from the pool of eligible applicants to receive the guaranteed income. These individuals will be asked to complete short surveys every month, as well as a few interviews throughout the program.

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To qualify for the Chicago Future Fund, all participants must meet the following criteria: ​​

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  • Be 18-35 years old

  • Live in West Garfield Park

  • Be formerly convicted or incarcerated

  • Make less than $12,000 per year

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We recognize that guaranteed income is not a universal remedy for centuries of oppression, criminalization, and neglect. $500 per month won’t solve the pervasiveness of systemic racism. However, we believe a guaranteed income can humanize poverty, reduce recidivism, and ultimately build a stronger and safer community in West Garfield Park.

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West Garfield Park

At A Glance


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​During the 1950s, West Garfield Park was deeply impacted by redlining, contract selling, and infrastructure construction. Within 10 years, West Garfield Park changed from all-white to all-Black, with its current population being 93% Black.

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West Garfield Park today:

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Poverty Rates

  • 47% of individuals in WGP live in poverty, compared to 22% in Chicago.

  • 60% of children in WGP live in poverty, compared to 31% in Chicago.

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Income Inequality:​

  • Per Capita (Chicago): $30,847

  • Per Capita (WGP): $11,739

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Educational Attainment, 2014-2018

  • 26.9% do not have a high school degree in WGP.

  • 14.9% do not have a high school degree in Chicago.

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