Cash transfers nearly halve neonatal mortality in Flint Michigan

The nonprofit GiveDirectly and the Rx Kids program provided unconditional cash transfers to pregnant women in Flint, Michigan, to reduce infant mortality.

Participants received a $1,500 lump sum during the first 16 weeks of pregnancy and $500 every month for a year after giving birth. Mona Hanna, an associate dean for public health at Michigan State University, reported that neonatal mortality in Flint dropped from 9.4 to 5.1 deaths per 1,000 live births during the study.

Mothers used the funds primarily for baby supplies, rent, and food. Hanna stated that the money helped mothers access prenatal care, improved nutrition security, and led to better birth outcomes. The program achieved a high participation rate because more than 90 percent of pregnant mothers in the region enrolled. While some previous studies in the United States showed mixed results regarding the impact of cash on child development, similar programs in Kenya saw a 48 percent drop in infant deaths.

Researchers note that while the Flint results are promising, the study lacked a randomized control group to determine if the results can be generalized to other areas. Rx Kids plans to expand the program to over 60 locations across Michigan with state funding. The program aims to address poverty as a primary cause of poor health in communities.