San Francisco Guaranteed Care Income Evaluation Final Report
December 2, 2025
Social Policy Research Associates partnered with the In Defense of Prostitute Women’s Safety Project to conduct an evaluation of the San Francisco Guaranteed Care Income Pilot. Using a participatory research approach, the evaluation examined how unconditional income ($2,000 per month for one year) shaped caregivers’ lives. The evaluation employed qualitative methods, including two rounds of interviews with participants which were conducted by program staff with guidance and training from SPR. In addition, the evaluation team collaborated closely with program administrators in the development of a program logic model and engaged participants in a sense-making session near the end of the evaluation, where they reflected on and helped interpret results—ensuring that their voices were centered in the results.
Overall, the evaluation found that the SF Pilot had a meaningful impact on participating mothers across the areas of caregiving, economic stability, health and well-being, and personal safety.
• Caregiving — Mothers felt seen and valued as caregivers. Pilot funds helped mothers spend more time with their children and buy things they needed, like clothes and toys.
• Economic Stability — During the pilot, mothers used the guaranteed care income to meet basic needs, address emergencies, and plan for their future. The funds reduced financial strain and provided caregivers with a newfound sense of independence and stability.
• Health & Well-Being — Mothers’ health and well-being generally improved towards the end of the pilot. Mothers felt less stressed and anxious, prioritized self-care, and experienced a new sense of empowerment and self-reliance.
• Personal Safety — Mothers described feeling safer and more in control of their lives. Meeting their own needs and those of their children enhanced their sense of security and strengthened their ability to make protective decisions for themselves and their families.
The pilot offers a strong proof of concept in demonstrating that direct cash can promote stability, increase choice, and strengthen families.