RxKids to Expand to Detroit
“A program that provides cash to help expectant mothers cope with bills, expenses and the high cost of taking care of children is coming to Detroit.
Democratic Mayor Mary Sheffield announced Monday that Michigan State University’s Rx Kids program is expected to open in the city within the first 100 days of her taking office. Sheffield was elected in November and was installed last week as Detroit’s first female mayor.
The program gives a one-time allocation of $1,500 to expectant mothers during pregnancy. That’s followed by $500 per month throughout the child’s first six months after birth. Families are expected to use the money for rent, utilities, food, diapers, baby formula, transportation, medical care and other essentials.
There are no income requirements. Sign-up is online. Recipients must verify they are pregnant.
Rx Kids started in 2024 in Flint, Michigan, and is aimed at removing families and infants from deep poverty. It has since expanded to 20 other cities around the state. By the end of January, another eight cities are expected to be on board.
Michigan State runs the program, which is administered by a nonprofit.”
Read more at the Associated Press.