OUR IMPACT

ECONOMIC INCLUSION & WEALTH BUILDING

THE FINANCIAL BURDEN OF INEQUITY

From basic needs such as housing or food to pursuing goals, investing in education or retirement, and managing everyday expenses, so many aspects of our lives rely on financial stability. But existing policies and systems meant to address economic inequities can also perpetuate and reinforce them. As a result, demographic data shows that underserved communities bear the brunt of these inequities. Even those making progress toward financial stability are vulnerable to income disruptions and unexpected emergencies that can take years to recover from.

A CLOSER LOOK

individuals live in poverty in our focus cities

TOP 20%

of earners received more than half of all U.S. income in 2021

3RD LARGEST

racial wealth gap in the U.S. is Massachusetts

IMPACT IN ACTION

Check out the latest initiatives, programs and policies we’re working on to promote economic justice through coordinated and holistic strategies that respond to the needs of our communities.

Boston Builds Credit

There are more than 200,000 Bostonians who are either unscored or have poor credit. We’re working to change that with a first-of-its-kind citywide movement, Boston Builds Credit. Created in partnership with Mayor’s Office of Financial Empowerment and LISC Boston, this program aims to help 25,000 Bostonians achieve a prime score by 2025.

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Wealth Building Network

Wealth inequality in Massachusetts has increased significantly in the past two decades. Our financial empowerment program strategies and partner networks have developed over 15 years of best practices and experience helping individuals and families to gain financial knowledge and skills and achieve economic stability and upward mobility.

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Guaranteed Basic Income

Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI) is a proven mechanism for alleviating poverty and improving health outcomes. In addition, GBI programs make it easier for people to find jobs and take care of their children. United Way of Massachusetts Bay partnered with the City of Chelsea and the Shah Family Foundation to launch Chelsea Eats in the Fall of 2020. Since that time, we’ve seen an increasing number of GBI programs arising in our region and across the country.

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Boston Builds Credit

Wealth Building Network

Guaranteed Basic Income

TAKE A DEEPER DIVE

Interested in taking a closer look at our innovative insights, expertly researched data and more? Check our research and reports.

RESEARCH & REPORTS

Moving Forward on Economic Inclusion & Wealth Building