FORESTDALE’S GUARANTEED INCOME PROGRAM SUCCESSFULLY IMPROVES PARENTING
Queens, NY – August 14, 2024 – Forestdale Inc., a family service agency in Queens and Brooklyn, is proud to announce the positive outcomes of its innovative Guaranteed Income Program (GIP). Generously funded by an individual donor, the GIP has provided $1,000 per month to 27 families receiving Forestdale services.
The GIP evaluation was led by Hunter College’s Silberman School of Social Work faculty, Drs. Martha Bragin and Michael Lewis. The qualitative program evaluation found that the first cohort of 18 families, all engaged in the child welfare system, showed overall improvement in several key indicators after the receipt of the first 15 months of supplemental income. This was a participatory evaluation in which the families set the standards for effective parenting and family psychosocial well-being, as the evaluators analyzed the interviews and records for changes in the families’ ability to meet these standards. Among the key findings were:
Nutritional Improvement: Initially, one-third of the families were food insecure, and another third struggled to put food on the table. By the end of the program, all families could provide nutritious meals for their children daily, thanks to having the time to shop and cook. Better nutrition has been linked to better general child well-being.
Enhanced Parenting: The funds allowed parents to spend more quality time with their children, better meeting their definition of "effective parenting." They engaged more in their children's lives, such as monitoring school progress and spending meaningful time together, factors linked to child school success.
Reduced Stress: The financial support significantly reduced stress, as families felt less alone and more capable of addressing their children's needs. The reliability of monthly funds provided a sense of security and support for families, many of whom were seeking relief from a sense of isolation.
Improved Well-Being: Families reported increased harmony, joy, and control over their lives. The consistent financial support allowed them to address urgent needs and connect with family members, improving their sense of community and subjective well-being.
The program's extension beyond the initial 15 months reflects the donor's commitment to supporting these families further. Forestdale Inc. continues to be dedicated to innovative practices that empower diverse families and improve their quality of life.
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