ARKANSAS — The Bridge Project, the first financial stipend program for mothers and babies to operate in multiple states, today announced its expansion to Arkansas. Building on successful launches in thirteen states serving over 4,000 families across the United States, the Bridge Project will support 300 eligible expectant mothers in the state. Applications will open on May 27, 2026.

The Arkansas program will serve two populations: mothers between 18 and 22 years of age, and mothers who are currently serving or have previously served in the U.S. Armed Forces, the National Guard, or the Reserves. More than one-third of babies born in Arkansas are to young mothers, whose pregnancies can disrupt educational and career opportunities at a crucial inflection point. Arkansas is also home to over 19,000 women veterans, an underserved population that faces elevated maternal health risks and financial strain.  

“Too often, parents face difficult tradeoffs at this critical moment for their families,” said Suzanna Fritzberg, Executive Director of the Bridge Project. “Young mothers and veteran mothers are especially vulnerable to the financial disruptions that come with welcoming new children. Our data-driven investment pairs financial stipends with community supports—giving Arkansas moms the stable foundation they need to support their children’s early development and create more secure economic futures.”

The program, which is supported by the Monarch Foundation, connects financial stipends with the strong ecosystem of Arkansas community organizations and philanthropic partners serving the state's most vulnerable families. 

Over a period of 36 months, participants will receive:

• A $1,125 one-time upfront prenatal stipend,

• $750 per month for the first 15 months, and

• $375 per month for the following 21 months.

The support will ensure babies have the resources they need to thrive in early childhood while families build long-term stability. By investing directly in mothers during this high-impact window, the Bridge Project offers a practical, data-driven approach to strengthening families, educational attainment, and long-term workforce participation.

To be eligible to participate in one of the Arkansas programs, applicants must either:

Applications are now open online and are reviewed on a rolling basis. Eligible program participants will be selected by lottery until the 300 slots in the program are filled. To apply, visit www.bridgeproject.org/apply.

“Arkansas has an opportunity to lead the nation in how we support military and Veteran families during one of the most critical seasons of life,” said Jody Bergstrom, CEO and Founder of Camp Alliance, Inc. “We are deeply honored that Arkansas will become the first state to intentionally prioritize currently serving and Veteran moms within the Bridge Project model. It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside The Bridge Project team and witness their heart, vision, and commitment to families. Paired alongside Fort FireFly, our new early education center opening this summer for service-connected families, this partnership represents a powerful investment in maternal well-being, early childhood support, and long-term family stability for those who serve our communities and our country every day.

"We are incredibly excited about the Arkansas Bridge Project and the impact it will have on the families in our community,” said Reina Martinez, Director of First Steps/Next Steps at the Teen Action & Support Center (TASC). “As an organization that works directly with young moms, we can attest to how life-changing this cash assistance program will be. It truly feels like the cherry on top—giving our young mothers the flexibility and dignity to use the support in the way that best fits their families’ needs.”

"The Arkansas Community Health Worker Association is excited about the launch of the Bridge Project in Arkansas,” said Judy I. Pile, Executive Director of the Arkansas Community Health Worker Association. “The generous financial support will improve financial stability, household savings, and mental health. We fully support how the Bridge Project trusts Arkansas moms by removing barriers and avoiding stressful time expectations for recipients."