Reminder: Find out if you're eligible to receive up to $725 a month—before the deadline closes
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If you’ve been feeling the pinch from rising prices lately, you’re not alone.
But what many folks don’t realize is that there’s a little-known financial support program quietly offering monthly payments for an entire year—and the deadline to apply is just days away.
If you or someone in your household meets the eligibility requirements—like living in the right area—this could be a welcome financial boost.
The catch? You’ll need to act fast to apply before the opportunity slips by.
Earlier this month, on April 14, the California Department of Social Services reopened applications for the Families First Economic Support Pilot Program (FFESP)—a local initiative designed to ease financial strain on families and support early childhood development.
The program offers eligible California residents up to $725 per month for a full year, providing a much-needed cushion for those facing economic challenges.
But don’t wait too long—the application deadline is April 27 at 11:59 PM, so now is the time to check if you qualify.
The FFESP is more than financial aid—it’s a proactive step to help families avoid falling into crisis.
By offering monthly support, the program aims to reduce the kind of economic stress that can lead to involvement with the child welfare system.
It's designed specifically to help households with young children remain stable and supported.
To qualify, applicants must live in one of these ZIP codes in Sacramento County: 95815, 95821, 95823, 95825, 95828, or 95838.
They must also be the legal guardian of a child aged 0 to 5, and have a total household income below 200% of the federal poverty level.
Have a total household income—before taxes—that falls below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Here’s what that looks like based on household size:
Applicants also must not be enrolled in any other government or privately funded guaranteed income programs at the time of applying.
California’s FFESP is part of a larger movement seen across the country.
Sixteen states now have guaranteed income programs, offering direct support to families in need without strings attached.
These initiatives are meant to strengthen community stability and improve long-term outcomes.
For example, Los Angeles County’s "Breathe" program gives residents $1,000 per month for three years.
In Georgia, the "In Her Hands" project offers an average of $850 monthly for two years.
These types of programs are becoming more common as a way to address financial hardship head-on.
More information is available on the official FFESP website.
Initially, 200 families were selected through a lottery system, though payment delays followed.
Now, with the application window reopened, families who may have missed out the first time will have another opportunity to apply.
Those interested must complete and submit their applications online via the FFESP website—paper submissions are not accepted.
Programs like FFESP are part of a broader shift in how support is delivered to families.
More than a temporary fix, these programs are proving to be long-term investments in family health and community strength.
Read next: Unlock your home upgrade: Discover how to apply for financial assistance today!
Have you—or someone you know—received support from a guaranteed income program? What was your experience like? Do you have advice for others applying, or thoughts on how these initiatives could grow? We invite you to share your stories in the comments—your voice can help others navigate the process and find support!
But what many folks don’t realize is that there’s a little-known financial support program quietly offering monthly payments for an entire year—and the deadline to apply is just days away.
If you or someone in your household meets the eligibility requirements—like living in the right area—this could be a welcome financial boost.
The catch? You’ll need to act fast to apply before the opportunity slips by.
Income programs are helping families across the country find stability during uncertain times. Image Source: Pexels / Engin Akyurt.
Earlier this month, on April 14, the California Department of Social Services reopened applications for the Families First Economic Support Pilot Program (FFESP)—a local initiative designed to ease financial strain on families and support early childhood development.
The program offers eligible California residents up to $725 per month for a full year, providing a much-needed cushion for those facing economic challenges.
But don’t wait too long—the application deadline is April 27 at 11:59 PM, so now is the time to check if you qualify.
Understanding the FFESP initiative
The FFESP is more than financial aid—it’s a proactive step to help families avoid falling into crisis.
By offering monthly support, the program aims to reduce the kind of economic stress that can lead to involvement with the child welfare system.
It's designed specifically to help households with young children remain stable and supported.
Also read: Unclaimed stimulus checks await in 2025—check your eligibility now!
Eligibility: Do you fit the "code"?
To qualify, applicants must live in one of these ZIP codes in Sacramento County: 95815, 95821, 95823, 95825, 95828, or 95838.
They must also be the legal guardian of a child aged 0 to 5, and have a total household income below 200% of the federal poverty level.
Have a total household income—before taxes—that falls below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Here’s what that looks like based on household size:
- 2 people (e.g., 1 adult and 1 child): $40,880 or less
- 3 people (e.g., 1 adult and 2 children or 2 adults and 1 child): $51,640 or less
- 4 people: $62,400 or less
- 5 people: $73,160 or less
- 6 people: $83,920 or less
- 7 people: $94,680 or less
- 8 people: $105,440 or less
- For families larger than 8, add $10,760 for each additional person.
Applicants also must not be enrolled in any other government or privately funded guaranteed income programs at the time of applying.
Also read: Are YOU eligible for a $725 stimulus check? See if your ZIP code makes the list!
A growing trend: Basic income programs across the states
California’s FFESP is part of a larger movement seen across the country.
Sixteen states now have guaranteed income programs, offering direct support to families in need without strings attached.
These initiatives are meant to strengthen community stability and improve long-term outcomes.
For example, Los Angeles County’s "Breathe" program gives residents $1,000 per month for three years.
In Georgia, the "In Her Hands" project offers an average of $850 monthly for two years.
These types of programs are becoming more common as a way to address financial hardship head-on.
Also read: Are you eligible for a part of UnitedHealthcare's $2.5M settlement? Find out how to claim your share now!
How to apply for FFESP
More information is available on the official FFESP website.
Initially, 200 families were selected through a lottery system, though payment delays followed.
Now, with the application window reopened, families who may have missed out the first time will have another opportunity to apply.
Those interested must complete and submit their applications online via the FFESP website—paper submissions are not accepted.
Programs like FFESP are part of a broader shift in how support is delivered to families.
More than a temporary fix, these programs are proving to be long-term investments in family health and community strength.
Read next: Unlock your home upgrade: Discover how to apply for financial assistance today!
Have you—or someone you know—received support from a guaranteed income program? What was your experience like? Do you have advice for others applying, or thoughts on how these initiatives could grow? We invite you to share your stories in the comments—your voice can help others navigate the process and find support!
