More than 84 thousand children live in poverty in Connecticut, and 122 thousand in near poverty. In this episode, we talk about a new program that has expanded into Connecticut that gives unconditional cash to expecting moms or new mothers. It takes them from pregnancy to prosperity and helps them invest in their baby's future. The program is aimed at stopping child poverty.
Laura Clancy, Executive Director of the Bridge Project, explains the program's mission to provide unconditional cash to low-income pregnant women for the first 1,000 days of their baby's life. She says giving the unconditional cash to spend the money as they want to, can empower the moms. She says the program can also improve babies social, emotional and mental development, and long-term well-being. The program, funded by philanthropists offers a prenatal stipend of $1,125 and monthly stipends of $750 for 15 months and $375 for 21 months. Clancy highlights the program's success in reducing stress, improving health outcomes, and supporting financial security. The Bridge Project has received over 2,000 applications for 500 slots in Connecticut but continues to accept more applications. They have filled 150 of the slots already and are hoping to expand into rural areas of the state.
For more information or to apply for The Bridge Project please go to bridgeproject.org
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