Since launching in Flint in January of 2024, Rx Kids has prescribed more than $5 million to more than 1,300 families.
On the first anniversary of the launch of Rx Kids – the nation’s first-ever citywide cash prescription program for pregnant women and babies – program participants are more financially secure, have improved access to healthcare services, and are better able to provide basic necessities for their babies. Rx Kids is now poised for expansion in Michigan – including an upcoming launch in Kalamazoo – as well as opportunities in communities across the country.
“As a pediatrician, I often wish I could prescribe away poverty. Rx Kids is the manifestation of that wish,” said Dr. Mona Hanna, pediatrician, director of Rx Kids, and Michigan State University College of Human Medicine associate dean of public health. “I’m proud that in just our first year, Rx Kids is tackling some of the most pressing challenges moms and babies face, from keeping a roof over their heads to putting food on the table. More communities in Michigan and beyond deserve access to these benefits, and we look forward to making that a reality in our second year.”
With an innovative public-private funding model that has drawn support from bipartisan legislators and philanthropy, Rx Kids provides a $1,500 cash prescription to pregnant women and $500 a month for each month of their baby’s first year. The program has led to a drop in evictions, improvement in maternal mental health and well-being, and reduced food insecurity. Program moms also report being better prepared to weather financial shocks like car troubles.
“The United States has a devastating level of deep child poverty compared to our economic peers,” said Dr. Luke Shaefer, Rx Kids co-director, professor of public policy, and director of Poverty Solutions at the University of Michigan. “Yet, we know child poverty is not inevitable; it’s a policy choice. Programs like Rx Kids and the expanded Child Tax Credit prove that we can solve our child poverty crisis with smart investments that lift up moms and babies across the country.”
Rx Kids is based on the historic success of the expanded Child Tax Credit, which lifted nearly three million children out of poverty in 2021. This impact is mirrored in the success of more than 70% of all nations across the globe that have implemented similar child cash transfer programs and seen reductions in child poverty and improvements in health outcomes.
“As a mom, I’d never want to have to choose between keeping a roof over my kids’ heads or putting food on our table,” said Alana Turner, a mother in the city of Flint and participant in Rx Kids. “Rx Kids has given me the peace of mind that I can provide the best possible life for my kids, even when times are tough. Being a part of the program reminds me that my community is looking out for my family and wants to see us succeed together.”