Study finds fewer Flint newborns died after Rx Kids started

June 25, 2026

A Michigan cash assistance program called Rx Kids, which provides $7,500 to families from mid-pregnancy through the baby's first year, has contributed to a dramatic 50% reduction in newborn deaths in Flint during the first 28 days of life. The program, launched in 2024 after Flint experienced disproportionately high infant mortality rates due to poverty, racism, and environmental injustice, has essentially eliminated the mortality gap between Flint and the rest of Michigan. Researchers found that participating mothers attended prenatal care more frequently, experienced improved housing stability and nutrition, and reported reduced stress levels.

Who is affected

Pregnant mothers and infants in Flint, Michigan, particularly during economically vulnerable periods
Families in nearly 50 Michigan communities where Rx Kids has expanded
13,154 families who have received cash assistance totaling $44.9 million
Specific participants like Heather Schmalz, a first-time mother and math teacher who used the funds for debt and health insurance
Babies who would have otherwise been born preterm, with low birth weight, or required NICU admission

What action is being taken

Rx Kids is distributing $1,500 in cash assistance mid-pregnancy and monthly $500 payments for six or 12 months after birth (depending on location)
The program is operating in nearly 50 communities across Michigan
Researchers are studying the effectiveness of the cash aid program
Republican lawmakers are questioning program leaders about long-term goals, sustainability, and fund usage

Why it matters

This program addresses longstanding health disparities stemming from decades of economic disinvestment, racism, environmental injustice, and poverty that led to riskier pregnancies and worse birth outcomes in Flint. The 50% reduction in neonatal mortality essentially eliminates the disparity between Flint (now at 5 deaths per 1,000 live births) and the rest of Michigan (4 deaths per 1,000), demonstrating that direct cash assistance during pregnancy can significantly improve maternal and infant health outcomes. The findings contribute to understanding how alleviating financial burdens during pregnancy can lead to earlier and more frequent prenatal care, improved housing stability, better nutrition, reduced smoking, and lower stress levels—all factors that contribute to healthier births and infant survival.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com