Imagine a program that not only supports expectant mothers but also lays the groundwork for a healthy beginning for their babies. That’s precisely what The Bridge Project, a nonprofit organization, aims to achieve as it expands from New York City to Milwaukee, marking its first venture beyond the East Coast.
Gina Stilp, the executive director of the Zilber Family Foundation, shares the vision behind The Bridge Project: to provide direct financial aid to pregnant individuals, empowering them to secure their economic stability while nurturing their children’s early years.
The genesis of The Bridge Project can be traced back to the Monarch Foundation, founded by Stilp’s family, which initially served mothers in upper Manhattan facing economic challenges.
Recognizing the impact of this assistance, the Monarch Foundation launched The Bridge Project in 2021, starting with a cohort of 100 mothers. The program’s success led to rapid expansion, reaching 500 participants across various New York boroughs by 2022.
Excitingly, The Bridge Project is now extending its reach to Milwaukee, offering support to an additional 100 mothers. The program structure includes a prenatal stipend of $1250, followed by monthly debit card payments of $750 for 15 months and $375 for the remaining 9 months, providing much-needed financial flexibility without usage restrictions.
Jessica Ramos Cuttone, National Director of Programs at The Bridge Project, highlights the significance of cash transfers, emphasizing their effectiveness in aiding families in need. The program operates on the principle of respecting the dignity and autonomy of mothers, recognizing their expertise in making decisions for their families.
Applications for The Bridge Project in Milwaukee are open to eligible individuals, prioritizing those residing in specific zip codes and meeting income criteria. Participation is voluntary, with no reporting requirements on spending, although participants are encouraged to contribute to research efforts.
Funding for The Bridge Project in Milwaukee primarily comes from the Zilber Family Foundation, with a commitment of $1.6 million over two years for direct cash transfers. Stilp encourages other foundations and corporations to join in supporting the initiative, aiming to expand its impact and sustainability.
Ramos Cuttone underscores the urgent need for such initiatives, emphasizing the prevalence of babies born into poverty nationwide and the insufficient investment in early childhood in the United States.
The collaboration between the Monarch Foundation in New York and the Zilber Family Foundation in Milwaukee reflects a shared commitment to addressing this disparity and ensuring a brighter future for vulnerable families.