Rx Kids Cash Aid Program in Flint, Mich.

SOURCE npr.org
The Rx Kids cash aid program in Flint, Mich., provides $7,500 in cash aid to new mothers over a year, aiming to tackle child poverty and improve birth outcomes. The program is universal, not limited to lower-income households, and has received funding to continue for three years.

Key Points

  • Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, who helped uncover Flint's lead water crisis, piloted the program
  • The program starts during pregnancy and provides $500 per month to new mothers over the baby's first year
  • Research shows that such cash aid programs reduce financial hardship and food insecurity

Pros

  • Provides financial support to new mothers in Flint, Mich.
  • Aims to tackle child poverty and improve birth outcomes
  • Universal program, not limited to lower-income households

Cons

  • Critics may argue about the sustainability of the program in the long term
  • Potential concerns about dependency on cash aid