Thousands of low-income families in Sacramento County are getting financial relief through the Family First Economic Support Pilot (FFESP) program, which officially began issuing $725 monthly checks in December 2024. This initiative is designed to provide financial stability for families struggling to make ends meet, and here’s everything you need to know to see if you’re eligible and when payments will arrive.
Who Can Get These Payments?
The FFESP program specifically targets low-income families in Sacramento County with young children. To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: You must live in one of these ZIP codes: 95815, 95821, 95823, 95825, 95828, or 95838.
- Income Requirements: Your household income must be less than 200% of the federal poverty level. This means:
- $40,880 for a family of 2
- $51,640 for a family of 3
- $62,400 for a family of 4, and so on. Larger households have higher income caps.
- Children: You must have at least one child aged 0 to 5 living with you at least half the time.
- Ethnicity Focus: The program prioritizes families with children who are Black, American Indian, or Alaska Native, though others may also be eligible.
The best part? Immigration status does NOT impact eligibility, making this program more accessible to many families.
When Will Payments Arrive?
The first payment was sent out on December 15, 2024. Families can expect monthly payments on the 15th of each month until November 15, 2025. In total, families who are part of the program will receive $8,700 in financial support over the course of the year.
Payments are delivered through either:
- Direct deposit via a SAFE Credit Union account
- A prepaid debit card issued through Usio Company
Why This Program Matters
This initiative is about more than just handing out money—it’s designed to reduce poverty and close economic gaps in communities that have historically been underserved. Families can use the funds to cover essential expenses like rent, groceries, and childcare.
By providing consistent monthly support, the FFESP program aims to help families achieve long-term stability and improve the well-being of their children.
Application Process and Deadlines
Applications for this round of the program closed in October 2024. Because there were only 200 available slots, applicants were chosen through a lottery system. The selected families completed verification processes before receiving their payments.
Although this application period is over, the program’s success could inspire similar initiatives in the future, so it’s important for families to stay updated.
What’s Next?
If you didn’t apply or weren’t selected this time, don’t worry. Stay connected with local organizations like the United Way California Capital Region and Sacramento’s Family Resource Centers to learn about upcoming programs that could offer similar assistance.
For more information and resources, visit United Way’s website.
