Rx Kids, a first-of-its-kind program designed to eliminate poverty and improve health, has passed a major milestone in Michigan: over $10 million in cash prescriptions directly to enrolled moms, babies, and families – and entire communities – since launching in Flint in 2024.
The plug-and-play program has since expanded to the cities of Kalamazoo and Pontiac, and to the eastern Upper Peninsula counties of Chippewa, Schoolcraft, Luce, Alger, and Mackinac with plans to expand to more communities throughout 2025.
“Rx Kids supports mothers and children during the most vulnerable time for families,” said Dr. Mona Hanna, director of Rx Kids and associate dean of public health at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. “Hitting the $10 million milestone is a wonderful achievement, but the return on that investment is even better: better health outcomes for moms and babies and stronger communities.
As of June 2025, the program has enrolled more than 2,500 families across the state. Every participating family receives $1,500 during pregnancy, followed by $500 a month during at least the first six months of a child’s life.
“Rx Kids provides mothers with a powerful, dignified, and easy-to-access source of financial support during one of the most critical and costly times in a family’s life,” said Laura Keen, U.S. Program Director at GiveDirectly, which administers Rx Kids. “By making the program universal, we’ve removed the stigma too often tied to public assistance—and reaching the $10 million mark shows just how impactful that approach can be.”
The program has demonstrated significant positive outcomes. Rx Kids has achieved a nearly 100% enrollment rate among eligible newborns in the communities it has launched in. Surveys indicate that 88% of participants feel more financially secure, 66% report improved access to healthcare, and 84% have gained confidence in parenting. Preliminary administrative data findings also reveal improvements in prenatal care utilization, improved maternal and infant health, decreased child welfare involvement and more. Economically, the program has generated an estimated $1.57 return on investment for local economies for every $1.00 prescribed, underscoring its dual role in enhancing public health and stimulating economic growth.
Michigan lawmakers are advancing a proposal to expand Rx Kids statewide, building on that success in Flint. With overwhelming support for statewide adoption, Rx Kids hopes to expand in Michigan and beyond. There is currently a proposal being discussed in the Michigan Senate that would make Rx Kids a statewide program, and discussions with other elected officials and funders interested in bringing Rx Kids to their states.
CBS News recently highlighted the program’s impact, noting that families use the funds for essentials like baby supplies, food, rent, and childcare. The proposed expansion reflects bipartisan support and a commitment to addressing child poverty across Michigan.
“Flint is proud to be the birthplace of Rx Kids and the national model for what equitable, community-based investment looks like,” said Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley. “This milestone represents more than just dollars, it reflects our commitment to families, to healthier futures, and to breaking generational cycles of poverty.”
Melina Royal, who enrolled in the program soon after it launched in her county in the Upper Peninsula, said that in addition to the financial support, the way Rx Kids shows families they are cared for is a positive attribute of the program.
“It’s about being seen and supported during one of the most vulnerable times in your life,” Royal said. “That makes all the difference.”
“This is more than financial assistance,” Dr. Mona said. “This is a powerful public health intervention grounded in dignity, science, and love. It is a proven cure for the pathogen of poverty in Michigan and potentially nationwide.”
Rx Kids is supported by a diverse coalition of funders committed to combating infant poverty and promoting maternal health. Major contributors include the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. A full list of funders can be found on the Rx Kids website.
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