#United States #New Jersey #Newark #Guaranteed Income #Trenton

New Jersey Cash Alliance Formed to Advocate for Cash Support Programs

The New Jersey Cash Alliance has officially formed, uniting more than a dozen organizations, including Mayors for a Guaranteed Income, with the aim of advocating for policies that will directly provide cash support to families across New Jersey. This initiative highlights the growing momentum in the state for cash-based assistance, which stems from previous successful pilots and programs designed to uplift struggling families.

Coalition Composition and Objectives

Among the prominent organizations in this coalition are notable local nonprofits such as the United Way of Greater Newark and New Jersey Citizen Action, alongside national advocacy groups like the Economic Security Project. Together, they are determined to push for cash policies that have proven instrumental in supporting families during difficult economic times.

The coalition builds upon the momentum generated by previous initiatives, including the New Jersey Child Tax Credit established in 2022 and the successful guaranteed income pilot programs held in Newark and Paterson. With the recent initiation of the Bridge Project cash program in October 2025, which focuses on delivering flexible financial assistance to 250 mothers across several counties, it is clear that these efforts are gaining traction.

Voices of Advocacy

Mayor Ras Baraka of Newark emphasized the impact of the Newark Movement for Economic Equity’s guaranteed income pilot program, noting it has significantly bolstered financial stability and improved outcomes for children. Baraka’s assertion—that these pilot programs should inform statewide policy changes—is a pivotal component of the coalition’s objectives.

Laura Sullivan from the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice expressed that despite being one of the wealthiest states, New Jersey grapples with stark economic inequality. She insists that expanding cash programs like the Child Tax Credit is crucial in combating this inequality.

Similarly, Rosemary Nwabueze of New Jersey Citizen Action articulated that investing in families is indicative of the values that New Jersey holds. The alliance pledges to amplify their collective voice until they achieve the essential cash-based assistance programs that communities are in desperate need of.

Catherine Wilson from United Way of Greater Newark highlighted the worrying rise in Asset Limited Income Constrained and Employed (ALICE) families, advocating for straightforward solutions that offer immediate benefits. Cash support can relieve the financial burdens of essentials like food, housing, and childcare effectively.

“Cash works, and New Jersey has data to substantiate this,” stated Nicole Rodriguez, President of New Jersey Policy Perspective, reinforcing the idea that expanding cash support initiatives is one of the most effective ways to alleviate poverty and reduce the wealth gap.

Economic Landscape and Future of Cash Support

The growing costs of living in New Jersey, paired with stagnant wages, have placed a strain on many households, as highlighted by Jonathan Gershberg, Lead Organizer for the New Jersey Cash Alliance. He emphasized that Trenton leaders need to invest in straightforward cash policies that have been shown to offer the stability all residents deserve.

Michael D. Tubbs, the founder of Mayors for a Guaranteed Income, remarked that the formation of the New Jersey Cash Alliance is indicative of an expanding movement for direct cash support across the nation. The positive data emerging from guaranteed income programs shows that even a modest amount of cash can transform families from merely surviving to truly thriving.

As this coalition continues its advocacy efforts, it stands as a testament to the importance of addressing economic disparities in New Jersey. The pathway forward is clear—through uniting forces and implementing cash-based programs, they aim to create a more equitable future for all families in the Garden State.

The New Jersey Cash Alliance is a crucial development in the ongoing struggle against economic inequality in the state, reinforcing a commitment to support those in need and create sustainable solutions that empower families.