Apply by February 14 to bring Rx Kids to moms and babies in your community
Building on major momentum and launch announcements across the state this week, Rx Kids is accelerating its historic expansion across Michigan. Following a bipartisan state investment to scale Michigan State University’s Rx Kids—the nation’s first community-wide prenatal and infant cash prescription program—applications are now open for Michigan communities ready to bring this proven, life-changing support to moms and babies. Over the next three years, Rx Kids will grow to dozens of new communities, delivering measurable results to families and local economies across the state.
From the Eastern Upper Peninsula to River Rouge, Rx Kids is already improving lives in 28 Michigan communities and delivering powerful results: stronger family financial stability, improved maternal mental health, and healthier birth outcomes, including fewer premature and low birth weight babies. Recent research also shows reductions in infant maltreatment allegations and significant local economic stimulus, with millions of dollars in spending strengthening small businesses and local economies.
“We are moving quickly to ensure Rx Kids reaches as many moms and babies as possible. By applying now, communities have the chance to bring these life-changing benefits to local families and help reshape health and wellbeing across entire populations,” said Dr. Mona Hanna, Rx Kids Director and Associate Dean of Public Health at the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine.
Michigan lawmakers made a historic bipartisan $250 million investment in the 2025–2026 state budget to expand the proven program across the state over the next three years. Previously approved funding for Rx Kids was at risk when the House Appropriations Committee attempted to clawback $18.5 million in 2024-2025 work project funding, which would have limited future expansions and support for approximately 6,000 Michigan babies. After a formal opinion from the Attorney General that determined the work project cancellations were unconstitutional, Rx Kids funding is restored, allowing the life-changing program to reach more families.
An MSU-led innovation, Rx Kids is administered by GiveDirectly and implemented in partnership with local Community Champions and stakeholders who drive outreach, engagement, and celebration. The program is funded by a public–private partnership combining state, federal, and municipal funds with philanthropic, business, health system, and individual support. Match funding is needed to launch in a new community, and philanthropic partners and donors are invited to join this growing movement to ensure every baby has a healthy start.
Rx Kids is designed for entire communities, whether a zip code, city, township, or county. The program prioritizes communities with the highest need, as measured by key indicators of community economic hardship (ie: Medicaid birth rates, child poverty rates, etc) and maternal and infant health.
Application Details
- Who should apply: Local entities such as cities, health departments, or nonprofits willing to serve as the Rx Kids Community Champion.
- Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate community need, outline match funding secured or in process, and commit to leading local outreach, engagement and celebration.
- Deadline: Applications must be submitted by February 14, 2026 ❤️, at 5:00 PM.
Communities interested in applying are strongly encouraged to attend our upcoming informational webinar on January 14, 2026. This session will provide details on program operations, match funding requirements, and the application process. Learn more and register.
For more information, to submit a community application, or to donate, visit Rx Kids in Michigan.
