Rx Kids

What is Rx Kids?

Rx Kids is a program that provides direct, no-strings-attached, financial support for new parents and their babies.

Starting December 1st, 2025, anyone who is pregnant and lives within the City of Ypsilanti can receive $1500 during pregnancy, and $500 a month for their baby's first sixth months of life.

Parents who gave birth to their child on or after December 1st, 2025 are eligible to enroll as well.

How do I apply?

Visit rxkids.org/ypsilanti and complete the application process.

To be eligible for Rx Kids, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a resident of the City of Ypsilanti - Please note your postal address may list as a participating community but be located outside of the official City of Ypsilanti limits. You can click here to confirm your eligibility. Eligible applicants will see their clerk listed as "City of Ypsilanti Clerk."
  • Be 18 years of age or older OR have consent from a parent or guardian if you are 16 years of age.
  • You are 16+ weeks pregnant OR are the guardian of a child who is 6 months old or younger born on or after December 1st, 2025.

To apply for Rx Kids, you will need to submit documents that show your identity, residency in the City of Ypsilanti, and your pregnancy/guardianship status. All documents can be uploaded as photos. You can view the list of accepted documents by clicking here.

How will I receive payments?

During the application, you will have the ability to select between receiving funds through a direct deposit to your bank account OR receive a prepaid debit card.

  • Direct deposits must be made to a bank account under the name of the parent applying.
  • If you opt for a debit card, you will be sent instructions for receiving your debit card in your enrollment confirmation message.

How does this program help?

Pregnancy and a baby's first months of life are when many families see their incomes plunge. These first few months of life are critical for a baby's development but is often when families are most financially vulnerable. Research has shown that direct cash support for new parents can:

  • Improve maternal and infant health
  • Enhance early childhood outcomes
  • Strengthen health and wellbeing for adults
  • Increase access to health services

Where does the money come from?

Rx Kids is a program of the Michigan State University Pediatric Public Health Initiative, in collaboration with Poverty Solution at the University of Michigan and utilizes both public and private funding. Originally launched in Flint in 2024, the State of Michigan recently committed $270 million to expand the program into more communities. 

The program's expansion to the City of Ypsilanti was made possible through support from the State of Michigan, the City of Ypsilanti, Song Foundation, Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, and Old National Bank.

For More Information

Visit Rxkids.org or visit their FAQ page by clicking here.