Rx Kids officially launches in Detroit, marking largest expansion yet

Detroit families are now eligible for direct financial support during pregnancy and early infancy as Michigan State University’s Rx Kids program officially launches in the city.

Mayor Mary Sheffield made the announcement last week, marking the largest expansion of the program to date. With approximately 8,000 babies born in Detroit each year, the rollout represents a significant investment in the city’s youngest residents — and positions Detroit as one of the most baby-friendly cities in the nation.

Applications for Detroit families are now open at RxKids.org and are also accessible through the City of Detroit’s website.

The launch fulfills Mayor Sheffield’s first major commitment after taking office. Rx Kids was her first announcement as mayor, accompanied by a pledge to bring the program to Detroit within her first 100 days.

“…supporting babies and families is foundational to Detroit’s future,” Mayor Sheffield said in a statement. “I promised Detroiters that we would provide every baby born in our city with this direct financial support so they can have the best chance at a good start in life. Today, we are delivering on that promise.”

Enrollment is open to Detroit families who are at least 16 weeks pregnant or who have a newborn born on or after Jan. 1, 2026 — aligning with the start of Sheffield’s term. Once verified, families receive a $1,500 prenatal payment and $500 per month during a baby’s first six months.

Founded by Dr. Mona Hanna, Rx Kids launched in Flint in 2024 and has since reached more than 5,600 families across Michigan, distributing over $22 million in direct support during pregnancy and infancy — a period widely recognized as both financially challenging and critical for child development.

Adding a heartwarming touch to the program’s release, Mayor Sheffield presented honorary baby Keys to the City, shown in an Instagram video. “I presented honorary baby Keys to the City of Detroit’s January 2026 babies — not for what they’ve done yet, but for their amazing future ahead. A future we’re investing in from day one through Rkids, making sure every Detroit baby gets the strongest start possible,” said Mayor Sheffield in her Instagram caption.

“Bringing Rx Kids to Detroit is a powerful milestone for this program,” Hanna said in the statement. “Together, we’re delivering a proven, efficient program that strengthens family financial security, improves health outcomes, and builds a brighter, more equitable future for Detroit’s moms, babies, and entire communities.”

Funds can be used for essentials such as housing, food, baby supplies, childcare, and transportation to medical appointments. Early results from other Michigan communities show high enrollment rates, reduced financial stress for families, improved maternal and infant health outcomes, and positive local economic impact as dollars circulate through neighborhood businesses.

With this launch, Detroit joins a growing number of Michigan communities investing directly in families — beginning at birth.