Around 40% of families in St. Louis City live at or below the poverty line. To create the St. Louis we all deserve, we must address the overwhelming number of friends, family, and neighbors living in poverty. Crime often directly stems from poverty or other unmet basic needs. Studies consistently show that the way to end poverty is by putting cash directly into the hands of those who need it most. This is not a handout but a much-needed hand-up.

As Alderwoman of the 3rd Ward, I would work with the Mayor’s administration to find new and innovative ways to fund the Universal Basic Income (UBI) program. Specifically, I would:

• Make UBI a permanent part of the Health and Human Services Department.

• Expand the program to include unhoused individuals and high-risk members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

• Collaborate with the Budget Committee to ensure the program is fully funded each year.