Springfield Works launches pilot program to help those who exceed public assistance benefits

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Springfield WORKS is launching the Bridge to Prosperity Cliff Effect Pilot Program to help individuals who rely on public assistance but receive a slight increase in their salary that disqualifies them from those benefits.

The pilot will take place in the Boston, Worcester and Springfield areas to provide direct payments to “bridge” the gap and make up for the value of lost benefits. With 18 individuals in the initial group and plans to serve up to 100 participants by fall 2025.

“This program will not only benefit hardworking families, but also the Commonwealth in the long term, with increased tax revenue generated from the families involved and decreased expenditure on public benefits. It’s a win-win,” said Kristen Joyce, Bridge to Prosperity Program Director. “It's also a model for other states – Massachusetts is leading the way in finding a solution to the benefits cliff.”

Participants receive personalized coaching on finances, employment, and career growth and connections to additional support in the community as needed. Based on their estimated cliff effect impacts, they will be issued a monthly bridge payment of $300, $500, or $700. After completing the pilot program, they will be eligible for a $10,000 asset-building bonus.

“Springfield WORKS is proud to lead this innovative effort on behalf of working families statewide,” said Anne Kandilis, Director of Springfield WORKS. “By investing in people and dismantling barriers to opportunity, we are strengthening not just individual futures but the future prosperity of Massachusetts itself.” 

Three coaching partners include United Way Pioneer Valley in Springfield, Worcester Community Action Council, and Women's Money Matters in Boston. For career advancement, the Economic Justice Hub at Boston Medical Center and Baystate Health in Springfield are working to support participants.

For more information, visit SpringfieldWorks.net.