New BIRTH fund aims to provide money to new families in areas with high infant mortality rates

INDIANAPOLIS — A new fund through the Bridge Project and the city of Indianapolis is aimed at providing cash assistance for those who are pregnant and have young families.

According to a news release, the BIRTH Fund, or the Building Independent Resilient Thriving Homes Fund, was launched on Wednesday.

Officials said this “unconditional cash initiative” aims to “improve the health and stability of families in neighborhoods with the highest infant mortality rates.” Eligible residents under the following requirements can now apply to become one of 100 individuals selected for this fund:

• 18 and older,
• 24 weeks pregnant or less,
• Must reside in Indianapolis zip codes with the highest infant mortality challenges for Black families: 46241, 46222, 46237, 46219, 46218, 46201 and 46235,
• Have a household income of $39,000 or below.

“Every person should have the opportunity to meet their basic needs and reach their full potential,” said Marianne Glick, the chair of the Glick Family Foundation, a Glick Philanthropies initiative. “When those needs are met, pathways to economic mobility become accessible. Through the BIRTH Fund, new mothers will be supported in preparing and caring for themselves and their babies so, together, they can live their best lives.”

Selected participants will receive direct cash payments for 36 months, including:

• A $1,125 one-time upfront prenatal stipend
• $750 per month for the first 15 months
• $375 per month for the following 21 months.

Recipients will also be able to access other supports, including:

• Healthcare interventions
• Community resource connections
• Adult education opportunities

“Through the BIRTH Fund, we are not only providing critical financial resources at a pivotal moment, but also investing in the strength and potential of mothers and babies who have long been denied equitable access to security, opportunity and health,” said Suzanna Fritzberg, the Bridge Project’s executive director. “Our aim is to ensure every family has what they need to welcome their children in safety and with hope for a brighter future.”

The release said 13 zip codes in Marion County have infant mortality rates that are 200% higher than the national average. Four of those counties are more than 300% higher.

“It is important that we as a community take action to ensure the best health outcomes for our future generation and those bringing them into this world,” Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said. “The BIRTH Fund will help uplift some of the most vulnerable in our city, improving the quality of life for mothers and their infants. I am thankful for the philanthropic generosity that made this life-changing pilot program possible.” 

For more information and to apply for the program, click here.