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Primary Submission Category: Economic development
Effects of a Municipal Immigrant Economic Recovery Program on Mental Health and Wellbeing
Authors: Ariela Braverman Bronstein, Natalia Espinosa Tokuhama, Laura McElherne, Rolande, Ayinkamiye, Jessica Santos,
Presenting Author: Ariela Braverman Bronstein*
Background: Economic security is closely linked to health, yet immigrant communities often face barriers to financial inclusion. During COVID-19, many relief programs intended to reduce economic and health impacts excluded immigrants, contributing to widening disparities. In response, local governments and community organizations implemented initiatives to support affected communities. The City of Boston launched a $3 million ARPA-funded Immigrant Economic Recovery Initiative (IERI) providing immigrants—including internationally displaced families and asylum seekers—$600 monthly payments, education and savings incentives, case management, and financial inclusion services. Methods: We conducted a prospective single-arm longitudinal study of immigrant families enrolled in the 12-month program. Of 546 eligible applicants, 200 were randomly selected and 148 completed the program. Case managers collected monthly survey data on financial stability, mental health, and basic needs. Financial stability was measured using a composite score capturing food security, housing stability, financial strain, and ability to cover unexpected expenses. Mixed-effects ordered logistic regression models assessed associations between financial stability and mental health over time. Results: Financial stability improved across all domains over the 12-month program, particularly housing stability and reductions in financial strain. The proportion of participants classified as financially unstable decreased substantially over time, while the proportion reporting languishing mental health also declined. In mixed-effects models, higher financial stability was associated with better mental health. Each one-point increase in the financial stability score was associated with higher odds of being in a better mental health category, with housing stability showing the strongest association. Conclusion: Participation in this immigrant-focused economic recovery program was associated with improved financial stability and reduced distress. These findings highlight the potential of financial stability interventions to positively influence immigrant health and well-being.