Atlanta Basic Income Program Ends, Leaving Participants Like Cepia Harper Juggling Multiple Jobs
Cepia Harper, a middle school teacher in Atlanta, was a participant in a basic income program that provided her with $850 monthly for two years. This initiative, part of a broader effort across U.S. cities, aimed to support low-income families with no-strings-attached cash. Harper, who was part of a cohort of 650 low-income Black women, used the funds to secure housing, earn a teaching certification, and build savings. However, since the program ended, she has returned to working multiple jobs to make ends meet. Despite the challenges, Harper feels more stable now, having been able to improve her living situation and career prospects during the program.