“Providing direct cash assistance allows families to make choices that best support their needs. By removing barriers, we empower parents to create stable, nurturing environments for their children.” — The Bridge Project Team
Breaking Barriers: The Bridge Project Expands to Appalachia
The fight against child poverty takes a bold step forward with the expansion of The Bridge Project into Appalachia. This groundbreaking initiative, which began in 2021 in New York, is now set to provide financial support to mothers and babies in Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia. By offering unconditional cash transfers, The Bridge Project empowers families, providing them with the flexibility to make essential financial decisions that improve their wellbeing.
A Lifeline for Mothers and Babies
The first 1,000 days of a child’s life are critical for their development, and financial insecurity can create long-lasting challenges. The Bridge Project aims to disrupt the cycle of poverty by offering direct cash assistance to expecting mothers. The program provides:
- A one-time prenatal stipend of $1,125
- $750 per month for the first 15 months of program participation
- $375 per month for the remaining 21 months
This financial assistance allows mothers to cover essential needs such as food, rent, childcare, and healthcare without restrictions.
Why Direct Cash Works
Traditional welfare programs often come with restrictions that limit a family’s ability to address their unique financial challenges. The Bridge Project operates on the belief that mothers know what’s best for their families. Research has shown that direct cash assistance:
- Reduces stress and improves mental health
- Supports better childhood development outcomes
- Increases household stability and financial security
In fact, after just six months in the program, participants reported a 242% increase in savings and 90% improvement in mental health and stress levels.
How to Apply
Applications open January 8, 2025, and are reviewed on a rolling basis until all program slots are filled. Eligibility criteria include:
- Residency in ARC-designated counties in Kentucky, Ohio, or West Virginia
- Being 18 years or older
- Being 14 weeks pregnant or less
- Having an annual household income under $44,000
No SSN or ITIN is required to apply. The first payments are scheduled to be disbursed in April 2025.
A Research-Backed Approach
Beyond providing direct cash assistance, The Bridge Project is conducting a first-of-its-kind study to analyze the impact of financial stability on maternal and infant health, housing security, and nutrition. This research will help shape future policies and programs aimed at reducing child poverty nationwide.
Join the Movement
With 1 in 6 Appalachian children experiencing food insecurity and infant mortality rates 16% higher than the national average, The Bridge Project is a vital intervention. By putting money directly into the hands of mothers, we are investing in healthier, more prosperous futures for generations to come.
For more details and to apply, visit The Bridge Project Website or reach out at info@bridgeproject.org.
Let’s break the cycle of poverty—one mother, one baby, one family at a time.
Download More Information
For additional details, you can download copies of the official documents here:
