Rx Kids Program Launches in Calhoun County, Provides Cash Support to New Mothers

A new maternal and infant health initiative is bringing direct cash support to families across four Calhoun County communities. Starting July 1, eligible mothers in Albion, Battle Creek, Springfield and Sheridan Township can receive financial assistance through Michigan State University's Rx Kids program.

The program provides $1,500 during pregnancy and $500 per month for the first six months of a child's life. This funding helps cover basic needs including housing, transportation, diapers and food during a critical time for families.

Program Details:

• Available to residents of Albion, Battle Creek, Springfield and Sheridan Township
• Mothers must be at least 16 weeks pregnant at enrollment
• Infants must be born on or after July 1, 2026 to qualify
• Approximately 780 babies are born annually across the four communities

"Bringing Rx Kids to Albion, Battle Creek, Springfield, and Sheridan Township is exactly why this program exists, to ensure that families in communities with the greatest need have the support they deserve from the very start," said Mona Hanna, director of Rx Kids and associate dean of public health at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. "Every mom and baby should have the opportunity for a healthy beginning."

Research from an earlier implementation in Flint, published in The Lancet Public Health, showed promising results. The program was associated with reduced preterm births and low birthweight, fewer neonatal intensive care admissions, improved maternal mental health, and increased financial stability for participating families.

The initiative is led by Michigan State University and administered by GiveDirectly, with local support from Grace Health and the Battle Creek Community Foundation. Grace Health coordinates outreach and engagement, while the community foundation manages funding and accepts contributions.

"We are proud to serve as the Community Champion for Rx Kids in Calhoun County because investing in mothers and babies is an investment in our community's future," said Peter Chang, president and CEO of Grace Health.

The Calhoun County expansion is part of a broader statewide rollout that will bring Rx Kids to more than 60 communities, reaching over 23,000 births annually. The initiative is supported by numerous organizations including the State of Michigan, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, WK Kellogg Co./Ferrero, and local community partners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who qualifies for the Rx Kids program in Calhoun County?
A: Mothers who are at least 16 weeks pregnant and residents of Albion, Battle Creek, Springfield or Sheridan Township qualify. Infants must be born on or after July 1, 2026.

Q: How much financial support does Rx Kids provide?
A: Participants receive $1,500 during pregnancy and $500 per month for the first six months of their child's life, totaling $4,500 in direct cash support.

Q: How can families enroll in Rx Kids?
A: Families can learn more and enroll by visiting rxkids.org or contacting Grace Health for assistance with the enrollment process.