Imagine being a high school senior, juggling homework, exams, and family needs—and then suddenly getting $50 every week, just because you’re part of a special program. For some teens in New Orleans, this is real. They can spend this money any way they want. It has changed their lives—in surprising and emotional ways. Let’s learn more.
What Is the $50 Study?
The Rooted School, a charter school in New Orleans, teamed up with researchers to give 800 high school seniors an unconditional $50 each week. That means teens receive money with no rules on how to use it . They want to see how it affects grades, saving habits, and feelings.
Who Can Get the Money?
To get this $50 every week, you must be a senior at a school in New Orleans or Indianapolis that joins the program . Students are picked by chance—some get money, others are part of a “control group” that doesn’t. This helps researchers compare both groups.
Why Do Teens Need It?
High school can be expensive. Teens pay for school events, food, transport, or help their families. Many felt stressed and couldn’t save for college trips or clothes for school. This extra money became a lifeline . For some, it meant not asking parents for help—and feeling more independent.
How Students Spent the Money
Teens used the cash in heartwarming and practical ways:
- College deposit: A student used the money to pay part of the college fee .
- Food and transport: Many bought food, buses, or Uber rides home .
- Family help: One girl used it to help her mom pay bills .
- Saving for future: Some saved up for a car or tools for work.
One teen said, “It really made life easier … I don’t really have to stress right now.” .
Big Changes in School Life
Early results are exciting:
- Better grades: Over half of the first group improved their GPA .
- Fewer absences: Around 38% came to school more often .
- Money smart: Students learned to save and budget, not just spend.
Why This Matters
This program shows how even small amounts of money can help teens feel safer and more confident. It helps them focus better in school and plan for the future . By easing money worries, it helps teens grow up stronger and more capable.
Is It Just a Handout?
Nope. This isn’t free money to waste—it’s real support. Research worldwide shows that when people get cash without conditions, they use it wisely on things that matter . These teens showed they could handle money responsibly—buying food, saving, or even starting small businesses.
What Comes Next?
Because the program works, officials are expanding it:
- 1,600 students will join over the next three years .
- New studies are popping up in other U.S. cities, looking at ways to help families through guaranteed income .
At first glance, $50 a week may not seem like much. But for a stressed-out teen, it can feel like a lifeline. It helps them buy food, go to school, support their family—and build self-confidence. The early results are showing better grades and fewer absences, and students are learning important money skills. This program is more than just cash—it’s a chance to help teens grow into responsible and hopeful young adults. With the expansion of this idea, we may see real change in how we support our youth. It proves that small help given early can make a lasting mark on their futures.
