Trenton, NJ — The Bridge Project, an innovative program dedicated to ending childhood poverty through unconditional cash assistance, today announced its expansion to New Jersey. Building on successful launches in New York, Wisconsin, Connecticut, Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Tennessee and Massachusetts, The Bridge Project will support 250 eligible pregnant individuals across key cities and counties in New Jersey. Applications will open on October 1, 2025 and monthly payments will begin on November 1, 2025.

This groundbreaking initiative provides no-strings-attached cash stipends to low-income mothers and their babies during a child’s crucial first 1,000 days of life. Participants will receive:

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

• $750 per month for the first 15 months,

• $375 per month for the following 21 months,

totaling three years of financial support designed to foster healthy development and economic stability.

"New Jersey consistently ranks among the most inequitable states in the country, with over 250,000 children living in poverty and one in eight facing food insecurity," said Executive Director of The Bridge Project, Suzanna Fritzberg. "Our expansion aims to directly empower families by providing financial freedom to meet their unique needs at a time of ongoing economic precarity."

Eligibility criteria for participation in the New Jersey program include:

• Being 18 years or older,

• Having an annual household income below $44,000,

• Being 23 weeks pregnant or less,

• Residing in the City of Newark, City of Trenton, City of Paterson, or Southwest Counties (Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland),

• No Social Security Number or ITIN required.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with eligible participants selected at random until the 250 program slots are filled. To apply, visit www.bridgeproject.org/apply.

The Bridge Project’s work in New Jersey is funded through generous contributions from local funders who have committed $6 million to cash disbursements, alongside support from the Monarch Foundation, which covers administrative costs. 

Research and early data from existing The Bridge Project cohorts, which has served more than 2,000 families, demonstrate significant positive impacts including increased savings, improved mental health and reduced stress levels, greater household stability and enhanced employment opportunities due to financial flexibility.

“We are thrilled that the Bridge Project is implementing its impactful cash-support model in New Jersey and proud to partner in its effort to ensure dignity, flexibility, and stability for families,” said Aaron Turner, Chief Philanthropic Officer at the Community Foundation of New Jersey. “Investing directly in mothers and babies across our state will provide life-long benefits and is the right thing to do.”

“At RWJBarnabas Health, we recognize that the first three years of a child’s life are critical to long-term health and well-being. By supporting this program, we are helping to address childhood poverty at its roots while fulfilling our mission to build and sustain a healthier New Jersey,” said Balpreet Grewal-Virk, Senior Vice President, Community Health, RWJBarnabas Health. “It’s a privilege to collaborate with like-minded partners who share our commitment to advancing opportunity and ensuring that every mother and child has the chance to thrive.”

“We are thrilled that Trenton will be one of the communities in New Jersey to benefit from The Bridge Project,” said Sandra Toussaint, President and CEO, United Way of Greater Mercer County. “At United Way, we know that giving parents and newborns a strong start is one of the most powerful ways to break cycles of poverty and build lasting stability. For moms, this means less financial stress and more time to nurture their babies. For Trenton, it means healthier families today and greater opportunity for future generations. Together, with our partners and neighbors, we can help more families thrive and our community grow stronger.”

"The Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern NJ is thrilled to take part in this groundbreaking initiative that reflects the deep commitment to supporting NJ families through every stage of pregnancy and early parenthood. Working together, we continue to strengthen our resources, reduce barriers, and build a healthier, more resilient community for generations,” said Mariekarl Vilceus-Talty, MA, BSN, President & Chief Executive Officer of The Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern NJ.

"Oasis – A Haven for Women and Children is thrilled to partner with The Bridge Project to help support low-income mothers and their babies. This empowering approach allows moms to address the specific needs of her family, sets the stage for healthy development of the child and lays the foundation for long-term stability. What an incredible gift to give a new mom hope, reduce stress, and disrupt intergenerational poverty," said Jennifer Brady, Executive Director of Oasis – A Haven for Women and Children.