Research shows Philadelphia’s pioneering cash assistance program for struggling renters is proving effective.

In a significant development regarding housing assistance, Brianna Gaskin, a 29-year-old mother of three, applied for a federal housing voucher five years ago but remains on the wait list with her family. However, in fall 2022, Gaskin became one of 301 households selected for a pilot program in Philadelphia that provides direct cash assistance to struggling renters. This initiative has allowed Gaskin and her fiancé to secure a rental home after years of unstable housing conditions, including periods of living with family and couch-surfing.

The cash assistance program, which does not impose spending restrictions, has become a crucial lifeline for families like Gaskin’s. She reported that the funds helped sustain her family during tough times, covering essential expenses such as food and diapers, ultimately enabling them to rent an apartment in West Philadelphia. Gaskin described the program as a “blessing,” underscoring its impact on her family’s quality of life.

Originally set to conclude in June 2023, the program’s duration has been extended for another year following a comprehensive analysis of its effectiveness conducted by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation (PHDC). The report revealed that participating households experienced fewer evictions and decreased risk of homelessness compared to those who did not receive assistance. Additionally, families receiving cash assistance reported fewer concerns regarding housing conditions, including issues related to safety and maintenance.

Rachel Mulbry, director of policy and strategic initiatives at PHDC, noted that the success of the program provides a strong foundation for its next phase. The study results suggest that direct cash assistance models like this one could effectively address housing insecurity, particularly for low-income tenants.

As of now, Philadelphia has allocated .8 million to this pilot program, funded equally by public resources and philanthropic contributions. It stands out as a pioneering effort in the United States, being the first city to conduct such a cash-based rental assistance trial since the inception of the federal rental assistance model in the 1970s.

Gaskin and her family, currently receiving ,150 monthly through the program, find it essential to maintaining their home, especially as she prepares for a career transition to nursing. She articulated the significant benefits the cash assistance has provided during a crucial period in her family’s life.

As other cities across the country consider implementing similar cash rental assistance programs, Philadelphia is positioned at the forefront of this national discussion. Mayor Cherelle L. Parker has committed to the continuation of this initiative as part of a broader plan aimed at creating or preserving 30,000 homes, further solidifying Philadelphia’s role as a leader in innovative housing solutions.