Striving Towards Economic Prosperity

United South End Settlements (USES) is making a difference in the lives of families facing economic hardship through our innovative Striving Towards Economic Prosperity (STEP) program. This Guaranteed Income Program provides participants with unrestricted monthly payments of $850 for 18 months. The core belief at USES is simple: families know best. That's why we created the innovative STEP program, designed to empower families to invest in their children's futures.

"We trust families to make the best decisions for their children's well-being," says Melody Valdes, Chief Programs Officer at USES. Surveys and regular check-ins with parents confirm the program's significant impact.

The results are clear. Before STEP, 86% of families couldn't afford extracurricular activities. Within just one year, that number dropped to 46%. These families are using the additional funds to make a lasting difference: opening college savings accounts and enrolling kids in enriching activities like sports and dance lessons.

STEP is making a difference for 16 families in its second year. The program begins with an income review, ensuring families understand any potential impact on existing benefits. Throughout the 18-month program, USES tracks progress through surveys and check-ins, constantly measuring STEP's effectiveness to help even more families in the future.

STEP thrives thanks to generous donors and grants. We're committed to growing the program and empowering more families in our community.

Want to learn more or directly support STEP? Contact Melody Valdes at mvaldes@uses.org. Together, we can strengthen futures, one family at a time.