In Sacramento County, a powerful new program is giving struggling families a lifeline—and for many, it couldn’t have come at a better time.
Starting this summer, 200 families with young children will receive $725 a month, no strings attached, for a full year. The goal? To help parents cover basic costs, stabilize their households, and prevent unnecessary child welfare interventions that often stem from poverty, not neglect.
For single mom Jasmine Thomas, the announcement was nothing short of life-changing.
“I’ve been choosing between paying the electricity bill and buying enough groceries more times than I want to admit,” she said. “This is the first time I’ve felt like someone sees us—and wants to help, not judge.”
What Is the Family First Economic Support Pilot Program?
This new initiative, called the Family First Economic Support Pilot Program (FFESP), is run by Sacramento County and targets families who are often left behind in traditional aid systems. It’s based on the idea that small, consistent financial help can go a long way toward keeping families together and thriving.
The program was designed to specifically support communities that face the greatest economic disparities—especially African American and Native American families, who are overrepresented in the child welfare system.
The funds—$725 per month for 12 months—come with no restrictions. Families can use the money however they need: rent, food, diapers, utilities, transportation. There are no requirements to report back or justify how the funds are spent.
Who Qualifies for This Stimulus?
To be eligible, families must:
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Live in one of six Sacramento County ZIP codes: 95815, 95821, 95823, 95825, 95828, or 95838
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Have at least one child age 5 or younger
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Earn less than 200% of the federal poverty level (about $60,000 for a family of four)
Applications closed on April 27, 2025, but the anticipation has been high, with hundreds of families applying. Final selection is being done via a randomized lottery, with payments expected to begin in June.
Why This Matters Right Now
Life in California hasn’t gotten cheaper. Rent, food, gas—everything costs more than it did just a few years ago, especially for those living paycheck to paycheck. And when families are stretched too thin, stress can lead to crisis.
“Poverty is one of the biggest risk factors for child welfare involvement,” said Jennifer Lewis, a social worker in Sacramento. “Not because people are bad parents—but because they’re under-resourced. Giving families money is a direct and proven way to keep kids safe and families together.”
Programs like this are becoming more common across the country, inspired by guaranteed income pilots in cities like Stockton and Oakland. The early data is promising: families report lower stress, better health, and even improved school attendance for kids.
Stories Behind the Numbers
For Maria Sanchez, a mother of three living in ZIP code 95828, the idea of getting $725 a month feels like “finally catching a break.”
“My husband was laid off last year. I’ve been cleaning houses during the day and working nights at a diner,” she said. “We’re not lazy—we’re just exhausted. This help gives us breathing room. Maybe even a chance to dream a little.”
She hopes the program doesn’t just end after 12 months. “This could change lives if it keeps going. It already changed mine.”
What’s Next?
The first group of selected families will begin receiving payments this summer. Sacramento County officials say they’ll be closely monitoring the impact of the program, with hopes to expand it if outcomes are positive.
Though applications have closed for now, advocates are urging the state and federal government to take note—and consider bringing similar support to more communities.
Because as one mom put it: “When you give families a little help, you’re not just giving them money. You’re giving them hope.”
And in times like these, that might be the most powerful stimulus of all.
