The $50 Study: A Direct Cash Assistance Program

A groundbreaking program to create economic opportunity, investing in high school students, $50 at a time.

The $50 Study is the first and largest direct cash transfer study of its kind for high school students in the United States. Led by Rooted School Foundation, the program gives participating teens $50 a week—unconditionally—for 40 weeks, investing directly in their potential during a pivotal moment in their lives.

Since 2020, we've enrolled over 1000 students in The $50 Study and disbursed over $500,000 in direct cash assistance. Backed by a randomized controlled trial in partnership with researchers from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and the University of Pennsylvania, early results show promising gains: reduced financial stress, improved academic outcomes, and smarter financial decisions. Students are using their funds for food, transportation, college applications, driver’s ed, and more—choices that reflect their needs and aspirations.

As the program expands in New Orleans, to Washington D.C., and beyond, The $50 Study is making the case that unconditional cash is one of the most powerful ways we can invest in young people and their futures.