Episode 299: Can Cash Improve Pregnancy Outcomes?

Episode 299: Can Cash Improve Pregnancy Outcomes?

May 12, 2026 · 27 min · Episode 299

About this episode

The episode discusses how direct cash support during pregnancy can improve outcomes for families and society.

Pregnancy is often treated as a personal responsibility, but the effects don't stay personal. When expectant parents can't afford basics like stable housing or healthy food, it can have ripple effects for society. That's why some communities are trying a different approach: giving expecting parents direct cash support during pregnancy. Professor Ali Groves explains how these programs work, focusing on the Philly Joy Bank, and why receiving money with no strings attached can ease stress and help families during a critical period. For more on this topic: Read Groves' analysis in The Gender Policy Report, Parenting is Expensive, Guaranteed Income May Help , co-authored with Libby Valdez and Yuan He Check out her op-ed in Penn Live, When Washington fails expecting mothers, Philadelphia shows a better way

People in this episode

Guest: Ali Groves

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Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Philly Joy Bank, The Gender Policy Report, Penn Live

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