Sacramento County, California, has launched the Family First Economic Support Pilot Program (FFESP), offering $725 monthly payments to eligible families for one year.
This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to low-income households with young children, particularly focusing on communities disproportionately affected by economic hardships.
Program Overview
| Program Name | Family First Economic Support Pilot Program (FFESP) |
|---|---|
| Monthly Payment Amount | $725 |
| Total Duration | 12 months |
| Total Benefit | $8,700 |
| Payment Start Date | December 15, 2024 |
| Application Period | April 14 – April 27, 2025 |
| Administered By | Sacramento County Department of Child, Family, and Adult Services |
| Funding Source | California Department of Social Services State Block Grant |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the FFESP, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Residency: Must reside in one of the following Sacramento County ZIP codes: 95815, 95821, 95823, 95825, 95828, or 95838.
- Income Level: Household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL). For example:
- 2-person household: Income less than $40,880
- 4-person household: Income less than $62,400
- Family Composition: Must be the parent or legal guardian of a child aged 0 to 5 years, with the child residing in the household at least 50% of the time.
- Demographic Focus: While the program is open to all who meet the criteria, it prioritizes families who are Black, African American, American Indian, or Alaska Native, aiming to address historical economic disparities.
- Other Assistance: Applicants must not be receiving guaranteed income from another pilot or program.
Note: Immigration status does not affect eligibility.
Application Process
The application window for the FFESP reopened on April 14, 2025, and closed on April 27, 2025. Applications were submitted online through the official
Applicants were required to provide documentation verifying:
- Proof of residency in the specified ZIP codes
- Household income
- Legal guardianship of a child aged 0 to 5
Selected participants were notified via email or letter with instructions on setting up direct deposit or receiving a prepaid debit card for monthly payments.
Payment Schedule
The first payment of $725 is scheduled for December 15, 2024, with subsequent payments issued monthly through November 15, 2025.
Program Goals
The FFESP aims to:
- Reduce child abuse and neglect by alleviating financial stress
- Lower foster care entry rates through economic support
- Improve financial stability for low-income families
By providing consistent monthly payments, the program seeks to empower families to meet basic needs, focus on child-rearing, and improve overall well-being.
The Family First Economic Support Pilot Program represents a targeted effort by Sacramento County to address economic disparities and support families with young children.
By providing $725 monthly payments for a year, the program offers financial relief to those most in need. While the application period has closed, staying informed about similar initiatives can help eligible families take advantage of future opportunities.
FAQs
Can I apply if I live outside the specified ZIP codes?
No, eligibility is restricted to residents of the six specified Sacramento County ZIP codes.
Will receiving FFESP payments affect my other benefits like SSI or SSDI?
FFESP payments are considered unconditional cash transfers and should not affect other benefits. However, it’s advisable to consult with a benefits advisor for personalized information.
Is there a limit to the number of families that can receive the payments?
Yes, the program initially aimed to assist approximately 200 families, selected through a lottery system.