Core project

Rx Kids

January 2024 - Current

Summary

Rx Kids is the nation's first community-wide cash prescription program for pregnant moms and babies.

Rx Kids is a cash prescription program for pregnant moms and babies. The program provides all pregnant moms in the program's community with $1,500 during pregnancy and $500 a month during the baby’s first months of life. Where you live determines eligibility the Rx Kids program. The goal of the program is to improve infant and maternal health, the economic and mental well-being of participants, and community-wide outcomes. Since 2024, Rx Kids has expanded from Flint to dozens of communities across Michigan, reaching thousands of families each year. Expansion outside of Michigan is underway — for research findings and more information, please visit RxKids.org.

Led by Dr. Mona Hanna, associate dean for public health and C. S. Mott Endowed Professor of Public Health at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, and co-founded by Luke Shaefer, former director of Poverty Solutions, Rx Kids helps families make ends meet and provide a solid start for their child.

Rx Kids is led by Michigan State University and administered by GiveDirectly. Poverty Solutions provides research support to this program.

economic mobility