Expecting mothers in three states will now receive monthly cash payments of $750 as part of a growing guaranteed income initiative aimed at supporting maternal and infant health.
The Bridge Project, initially launched in New York, has expanded its efforts into Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia, providing financial assistance to low-income pregnant women in these states.
The program’s expansion into Appalachia addresses the region’s high maternal and infant mortality rates, aiming to provide financial security for mothers-to-be during pregnancy and early childhood.
With no restrictions on how the money can be spent, the program gives mothers flexibility to cover essential expenses like healthcare, housing, food, and childcare.
Here’s everything you need to know about the program, including who qualifies, how to apply, and what this expansion means for expecting mothers.
What Is the Bridge Project?
The Bridge Project is a direct cash assistance program designed to support low-income pregnant women. The program originally launched in New York and has since expanded into other regions to combat financial instability and improve child development outcomes.
Participants receive:
- An initial lump sum of $1,125
- $750 per month for the first 15 months of their baby’s life
- $375 per month for the following 21 months
This totals more than $20,000 in financial aid per participant, with no restrictions on how the money is spent. Unlike traditional government assistance programs, the Bridge Project offers unconditional support, trusting mothers to use the funds in ways that best meet their family’s needs.
Where Has the Program Expanded?
As of 2025, the Bridge Project has expanded into three new states:
- Ohio
- Kentucky
- West Virginia
These states were selected due to high poverty rates, poor maternal health outcomes, and limited access to healthcare services for expecting mothers.
By providing direct financial assistance, the program aims to reduce stress, improve birth outcomes, and give families a stronger financial foundation during the critical early years of a child’s life.
Who Is Eligible for the $750 Monthly Payments?
To qualify for the Bridge Project’s cash assistance program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be pregnant (less than 14 weeks) at the time of application
- Have a household income below $44,000 per year
- Reside in an eligible county in Ohio, Kentucky, or West Virginia
Because the program is designed to target low-income households, income limits apply. However, the application process is straightforward, and eligible mothers are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
How to Apply for the $750 Monthly Payment
Check Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet the age, pregnancy, income, and residency requirements.
Gather Documentation: Applicants will need:
- Government-issued ID
- Proof of pregnancy (medical documentation or doctor’s note)
- Income verification (pay stubs, tax returns, or W-2 forms)
- Proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or official correspondence)
Submit an Application:
- Applications must be submitted through The Bridge Project’s official website.
- The program has limited spots available, so early applications are encouraged.
Once approved, payments will be sent directly to participants each month via direct deposit or prepaid debit card.
Why Is This Program Important?
Pregnancy and early parenthood come with significant financial challenges, and for many low-income mothers, the stress of affording necessities can negatively impact their health and their child’s development.
Key Benefits of the Program:
- Better Health Outcomes – Financial support allows mothers to access prenatal care, healthy food, and essential medical services, reducing pregnancy-related risks.
- Reduced Stress & Anxiety – Stable financial support helps expecting mothers focus on their health without worrying about money.
- Flexibility – Unlike traditional assistance programs, these payments have no restrictions on how they can be spent.
- Stronger Early Childhood Development – More financial resources can lead to improved housing conditions, better nutrition, and greater access to educational resources for children.
Addressing Economic Inequality in Appalachia
The Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia regions face some of the highest rates of maternal and infant mortality in the U.S. Many families struggle to access quality healthcare, stable housing, and nutritious food during pregnancy.
By introducing unrestricted financial aid, the Bridge Project hopes to improve economic stability for expecting mothers while providing their newborns with a healthier start in life.
What’s Next for Guaranteed Income Programs?
The Bridge Project is part of a growing national movement toward guaranteed basic income (GBI) programs, which provide direct cash payments to individuals in need.
According to Business Insider, at least 16 states and Washington, D.C., currently have active guaranteed income programs for low-income residents.
The success of the Bridge Project’s expansion could pave the way for more states to adopt similar financial support programs for pregnant women and families in need.
Final Thoughts: A Game-Changer for Expecting Moms
The expansion of the Bridge Project into Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia marks a major step forward in supporting maternal health and economic stability. By providing $750 monthly cash payments to low-income expecting mothers, this program ensures that more babies are born into financially secure households.
For pregnant women struggling to make ends meet, this no-strings-attached assistance can make all the difference—helping with housing, medical care, food, and other essential expenses.
If you or someone you know is expecting and lives in one of the eligible states, be sure to apply as soon as possible to take advantage of this vital program.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
A senior at Yale-NUS College with interests in developmental and labour economics, as well as creative non-fiction and poetry. Currently, I’m studying as an Economics major and an Arts and Humanities minor (focusing on Creative Writing) with heavy involvement in the Singaporean journalism scene and involved in research on economic history and educational policy. I’m working as an author for The Octant, Yale-NUS’ student publication, as a writer for Wingspan, Yale-NUS’ alumni magazine, and as a tutor for the NUS Libraries Writer’s Centre. | Linkedin