The Bridge Project, a guaranteed income initiative originating from New York state, is designed to provide financial support to low-income expectant mothers for a duration of 15 months. Commencing in June 2021, the program introduces a novel approach by disbursing no-strings-attached cash to participants on a biweekly basis. Initially, 100 beneficiaries received $500 debit cards biweekly for a span of three years.
What began as a temporary assistance initiative has evolved into a permanent support system for pregnant individuals. Beyond financial aid, The Bridge Project extends additional assistance by connecting expectant mothers with doulas and offering mental health and benefits counseling services. The program is accessible to New Yorkers in three locations: New York City, Rochester, and Buffalo, although payment amounts may vary between these cities.
Eligibility criteria differ based on the location. For instance, individuals qualifying for the Buffalo program are entitled to a one-time prenatal stipend of $1,125. Recipients in all locations receive $750 monthly for the initial 15 months and $375 monthly for the subsequent 21 months. While Buffalo is currently not accepting new applications, interested parties in other areas can visit The Bridge Project website to submit their applications.
For those residing in the Rochester area, eligibility requirements include being 18 years or older, expecting their first child within 23 weeks or less, having an annual household income below $40,000, and residing in the city of Rochester. Similarly, New York City applicants must meet comparable prerequisites.
The concept of guaranteed income, akin to universal basic income (UBI), involves providing recurring payments to individuals with low incomes. Such programs may be funded by public funds or government initiatives, with the aim of alleviating poverty. Although resembling UBI, guaranteed income programs generally offer smaller amounts and are often directed towards specific demographic groups. The rise of these initiatives across the nation is a response to the economic challenges posed by the pandemic, which led to job losses and increased homelessness, particularly in states like California.
