In the heart of the city, the ARISE program, short for Alexandria Recurring Income for Success and Equity, has become a transformative initiative for selected residents. This one-time pilot study offered a monthly payment of $500 to 170 randomly selected residents for a span of 24 months, aiming to alleviate financial stress for those in need. The pilot has a research component to gather information on the impacts of the income on mental and physical health, housing, food, transportation, financial stability, labor market participation, and child outcomes. Highlights from the first-year results of the evaluation revealed the following preliminary findings:    

1. Improved Mental Wellbeing: Participants in the ARISE pilot reported significantly more peaceful and stable home environments than those in the control group. Additionally, they expressed feeling more hopeful about the future, and reduction of financial stress, which improved their mental wellbeing. Participants reported feeling more patient with their children and were able to spend more time with them than control group members.  
2. Increased Financial Stability: The pilot demonstrated signs of improved financial stability for participants. Recipients noted greater control over their finances, reduced financial stress, and a greater ability to manage unexpected expenses, all contributing to their overall sense of security. Among ARISE participants, 1% reported living off their savings, compared to 6% of control group members.   
3. Empowerment: A notable insight from the evaluation was the impact of guaranteed income on participants' ability to balance their personal responsibilities. ARISE participants reported being able to work fewer hours, which allowed them to focus on family, education, and other important life activities. They also found time to focus on caregiving, entrepreneurship, and education.    

Transformative Journeys: Real Stories from ARISE Participants  

One of the standout testimonials comes from Ms. Johnson, a wife and mother to a 14-year-old son. The Johnsons’ lives took a turn when Ms. Johnson received a devastating cancer diagnosis shortly after being selected for ARISE. Before her illness, the family maintained financial stability, with both she and her husband working. However, once she could no longer work, their finances suffered. Ms. Johnson learned about ARISE from a gentleman who visited her workplace in Staples to print ARISE flyers. Encouraged by his words, she applied that evening and was thrilled to receive approval. She reflected on how that person who came into her job with the flyers changed her family’s trajectory. The monthly support from ARISE has been crucial in helping the Johnsons manage their finances while trying to navigate her recovery. Her story highlights the positive impact of community programs like ARISE, showing that even in challenging times, there is hope.   

Another testimonial comes from Vilma, a resilient single mother of two, who has experienced firsthand how profound the impact of the ARISE program is. Before ARISE, Vilma was juggling multiple responsibilities—caring for her mother, her children and working both part-time and full-time jobs to make ends meet. It was during that time that a friend of hers informed her about the ARISE program. With encouragement, her friend took on the initiative to apply for the program on her behalf. To Vilma’s relief and surprise, she was selected to be a participant. The moment she received the news marked a turning point in her life. The monthly payments provided her with the breathing room she desperately needed, allowing her to focus more on her children and her mother’s health needs. Vilma’s story illustrates the positive ripple effect the ARISE program can have for single parents and care providers.   

These individuals’ stories are just two of many that highlight the positive effect of the ARISE program in the community. As it continues to support individuals in need, ARISE stands as a testament to the power of equity and the importance of providing a safety net for those striving for success. Through initiatives like these, Alexandria is fostering a healthier and more vibrant community—one story at a time.     

Visit alexandriava.gov/ARISE to learn more about ARISE and read the one-year summary report from Abt Global.