Empowering Mothers, Transforming Lives: Ms. Harper’s Journey with In Her Hands

As part of a strategy to address financial insecurity for legacy residents in Atlanta’s Westside, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation made a $6.2 million grant to expand the Georgia Resilience & Opportunity Fund’s (GRO) In Her Hands guaranteed income program to Westside neighborhoods. In Her Hands provides a beacon of hope, offering a tangible solution to the pervasive issue of income inequality that disproportionately affects women.

In Her Hands is not merely a financial aid program; it is a transformative initiative to empower women to control their financial destinies. Participants in the Westside program will receive $36,000 over three years and can choose how to receive their payments. The no-strings-attached approach acknowledges the complex realities of financial insecurity and trusts women to make the best decisions for their lives and families.

The story of Ms. Harper, a native Atlantan, single mother and teacher living in Old Fourth Ward, illustrates the positive impact of guaranteed income. The program facilitated her move to a new apartment, provided stability for her family and allowed her the financial freedom to pursue her career aspirations. As a proud participant in the Teach for America program, Ms. Harper looks forward to teaching English Language Arts this fall and has been able to save and invest her money.

Ms. Harper reflects on her experience, pondering the potential of the funds to create lasting change. She recognizes the opportunity not just for temporary relief but for making strategic decisions that pave the way for long-term security and success. Her story is a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination of women when given the right support.

To watch our interview with Ms. Harper, click here.

As funders such as the Blank Foundation consider investing in initiatives like In Her Hands, it’s clear that the potential for positive change is immense. Ms. Harper’s outlook is optimistic. She believes the expansion of such programs could inspire more women to strive for betterment, not only for themselves but also for their communities. It’s a cycle of empowerment.

As the program continues to grow and reach more women, success stories like Ms. Harper’s underscore a powerful message: when women are supported and empowered financially, the possibilities are limitless.