NEW YORK (PIX11) – New York would give hundreds of dollars in financial support to low-income parents under a new proposal.
Last week, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a proposal to give low-income parents a “birth allowance” during pregnancy and at the birth of their child.
The state would provide a $100 benefit each month during pregnancy and a $1,200 benefit at birth to parents.
To qualify for the "birth allowance," parents must be recipients of public assistance.
Examples of public assistance programs in New York include Family Assistance and Safety Net Assistance. For more information on public assistance programs, click here.
The "birth allowance" is meant to help create a stronger foundation for parents and children and help reduce childhood poverty.
“We are prioritizing maternal and infant health, because every family deserves a stress-free start. We have a moral obligation to do everything in our power to support kids, parents and families…” Hochul said in a statement.
The proposal was announced as part of Hochul's 2025 State of the State.
New York City also provides funding for a guaranteed income program to support soon-to-be mothers experiencing housing insecurity.
Finn Hoogensen is a digital journalist who has covered local news for more than six years. He has been with PIX11 News since 2022. See more of his work here.