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Richmond opens applications for $500 monthly income program

City’s Resilience Initiative supports single-parent households

Free Press staff report | 5/29/2025, 6 p.m.

Applications are open for the fourth cohort of the Richmond Resilience Initiative, a guaranteed basic income program offering $500 per month to eligible residents for two years.

The program, launched in 2020 by the City of Richmond’s Office of Community Wealth Building in partnership with the Robins Foundation, aims to reduce financial instability for working families. The initiative is part of a broader national movement that includes Mayors for a Guaranteed Income, founded by former Stockton, Calif., Mayor Michael Tubbs.

This year’s cohort will focus on single parents, including guardians with custody, step-parents, foster parents and others serving as primary caregivers.

Officials say participants in previous cohorts have used the monthly payments to cover essential expenses, reduce debt, pursue education, and improve overall family stability.

“In Richmond, we believe everyone has a right to thrive, not just survive,” Mayor Danny Avula said. “The Richmond Resilience Initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a city where families have the stability and support they need to build a better future. This is about trust, dignity and ensuring our residents have the resources to move forward with confidence.”

Applications will be accepted through June 30. City residents can check eligibility and apply online at go.rva.gov/rri-2025

For more information, contact the RRI team at rri@rva.gov.