The County’s Basic Income Pilot program provides some economic relief and ongoing mentorship to youth who transitioned out of foster care

Not long ago, there was a time when Luana had only enough money to buy food for her sibling. Her younger sibling lived with her. For Luana, based upon the situation, it was logical to give the food to her sibling, and not eat. There wasn't enough. It’s not clear how often this happened – but she thinks it has resulted in a recurring stomach problem. “I need to make a doctor’s appointment for that,” she told me. However, things have changed. Her economic life has somewhat improved. Now, Luana has money to purchase enough food so that she too can eat. “I am no longer sacrificing one thing for the other – and that makes me feel calmer,” she said.