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Guaranteed income programs are spreading across the US as a new city prepares to give away tens of millions of dollars to people who need help to make ends meet.<\/p>\n
Rx Kids is a five-year, $55 million program designed to provide financial assistance to all expecting mothers living in Flint, Michigan.<\/p>\n
The project, which aims<\/a> to break the cycle of poverty, will dole out an initial lump sum payment of $1,500 to participants during their pregnancy to spend on items such as food, prenatal care and rent. After the pregnancy, they will collect $500 each month to support the newborn for one year.<\/p>\n The signup process began<\/a> on January 10th and is still open at time of publishing. Applicants must be at least 20 weeks pregnant and provide proof including an ultrasound photo. They must also\u00a0provide <\/a>documents that show their identity and residency in the city of Flint, Michigan.<\/p>\n The program is funded using both public and private funds. So far, Rx Kids has raised enough cash to keep the program running for at least three years.<\/p>\n According to Rx Kids, the effort<\/a> can significantly improve the lives of both the mother and the baby.<\/p>\n \u201cCash is proven to work \u2013 especially in the hands of new moms.<\/em><\/p>\n Hundreds of studies show that unconditional cash transfers can be life-changing across countries and contexts. Mothers and babies are no different, and early intervention is shown to have sustained health and development impacts years after cash is delivered.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Mayor Sheldon Neeley tells<\/a> the CBS-affiliated news station NewsChannel 5 that Rx Kids is an investment in the future of the city.<\/p>\n \u201cInvesting in strong families is an investment in Flint\u2019s future. This universal basic income program will lift families out of poverty and improve health outcomes.<\/em><\/p>\n Our prayer is that we will improve maternal and infant health, and help Flint families raise strong, healthy babies.\u201d\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n Don’t Miss a Beat \u2013 Subscribe<\/a> to get email alerts delivered directly to your inbox <\/span><\/em>
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