Imagine having the peace of mind to plan for bringing home your baby without the constant worry of money problems. That’s exactly what the California Abundant Birth Project (CA ABP) is trying to offer. It’s an assured income initiative that gives pregnant women at greatest risk of premature birth access to money to be able to prioritize their health and not their bank accounts.
This program provides women who are eligible with a monthly cash benefit in Alameda, Contra Costa, Los Angeles, and Riverside counties, a payment of $616 to $1,000 every month, depending on where you live. The benefit can be received for 12 to 18 months, and it’s completely unconditional.
What is the CA Abundant Birth Project (ABP)?
The CA ABP is a groundbreaking program designed to reduce premature births by alleviating economic hardship. The program gives pregnant women a monthly allowance, starting in their first or second trimester and continuing after delivery.
It’s not a handout—it’s a lifeline. The CA ABP is based on the belief that all families deserve a healthy birth, especially those who were previously strapped.
To date, the program has
- Helped over 968 women
- Gave $6.4 million
- Welcomed the safe birth of 401 babies
Who is eligible to get monthly payments of up to $1,000?
To qualify, you will need to be:
- Living in Alameda, Contra Costa, Los Angeles, or Riverside counties.
- 8 to 27 weeks pregnant when applications open.
- Not already participating in another program of guaranteed income.
In addition, you must identify with at least one preterm birth risk factor:
- Be Black or African American.
- Have had a previous premature birth (before 37 weeks).
- Have pre-existing diabetes or hypertension (before pregnancy).
- Have sickle cell anemia.
And your family income must fall below these county levels:
Alameda:
- $128,017
- Contra Costa:
- $132,360
- Los Angeles:
- $106,911
- Riverside:
- $81,581
How much could you get per month?
If you are chosen, you will receive
Alameda:
- $967/month
- Contra Costa: $1,000/month
- Los Angeles: $807/month
- Riverside: $616/month
You’ll receive the money via a reloadable debit card, and the payment will be deposited on the 30th of each month.
How to apply and what you’ll need
Although applications are currently closed, more enrollment periods are expected soon. To apply, you’ll need:
- Proof of pregnancy
- Proof of residency
- Proof of identity
Keep an eye on the official CA ABP website for updates and upcoming application windows.
No strings attached: Use the money your way
The thing that’s most empowering about the CA ABP is its unconditional support. There’s no obligation to report how you use the money—it’s just about providing you with the freedom to take care of yourself and your baby in whatever way makes sense to you.
Related article:
Good news for student loan borrowers as Trump pauses Social Security garnishment
If you are eligible, this could be the support you need for one of the biggest trips of your life.
