In times of financial strain, Sacramento County is stepping up to support its residents with essential financial assistance. Through the Family First Economic Support Pilot Program (FFESP), the county is providing $725 monthly stimulus checks to qualifying families, helping alleviate financial burdens for parents and guardians with young children.
The program is designed to help residents experiencing financial insecurity by directly depositing funds to families, ensuring they have access to essential resources. Here’s what you need to know about this program and when you can expect the next round of payments.
What is the Family First Economic Support Pilot Program (FFESP)?
Sacramento County has partnered with the United Way California Capital Region and the Department of Child, Family, and Adult Services (DCFAS) to implement the FFESP. The initiative aims to support low-income families with children under the age of 5.
By distributing no-strings-attached income, the program focuses on reducing financial instability and enhancing the well-being of families in the community. The initiative was launched in June 2025 and is designed to provide targeted financial relief for families that face economic challenges.
Who is Eligible for the $725 Monthly Payments?
The FFESP prioritizes families with children aged 0 to 5 who live below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) in specific qualifying zip codes. This initiative randomly selected 200 households to participate, with benefits lasting for 12 months. Eligibility is based on the following criteria:
Parent or Legal Guardian of a Child: Must have a child between 0 and 5 years old.
No Other Guaranteed Income: Households participating in other guaranteed income programs are not eligible.
Residency: Must live in qualifying zip codes: 5815, 95821, 95823, 95825, 95828, and 95838.
Income Level: The household must have an income that is below 200% of the federal poverty level. For instance:
Households of 2: Annual income must be under $40,880.
Households of 4: Annual income must be under $62,400.
Households of 8: Annual income must be under $105,440.
For households with more than 8 members, each additional person allows an increase of $10,760 in income eligibility.
How Much is the Payment, and How Long Will it Last?
The FFESP is providing $725 each month per qualifying household, totaling $8,700 over the course of one year. This financial support is essential for helping families cover basic needs like housing, food, and childcare. Payments will be distributed monthly, continuing until July 15, 2026.
Payment Distribution and Delivery Methods
To ensure the payments are accessible, the FFESP uses multiple methods of distribution:
Direct Deposit: For recipients with bank accounts, funds are directly deposited into their accounts for easy access.
SAFE Bank Accounts: Some households may use SAFE accounts for secure payment delivery.
Usio Debit Card: For families who do not have bank accounts, payments are loaded onto debit cards for convenience.
The next payment will be issued on August 15, 2025. Recipients can expect their monthly payment on time as long as they remain eligible and live in the qualifying zip codes.
Program Goals and Benefits
The FFESP aims to address systemic inequities within Sacramento County, with special attention given to Alaska Native, African American, and Native American households.
Aside from financial relief, the program also offers support services, including access to community resources and financial counseling. These services are intended to promote child development, improve family well-being, and provide long-term educational benefits for young children.
By increasing the disposable income of low-income families, the program not only supports families but also boosts local businesses and the overall economy. The additional funds provide a cushion for families to invest in essentials, which helps create a stronger and more resilient community.
How to Apply and What’s Next?
Those who are not automatically eligible for the FFESP can apply for the program if they meet the income and residency requirements. Applications are available for those who live in the qualifying zip codes but have not been randomly selected.
For more information about the Family First Economic Support Pilot Program, visit the official FFESP website. There, you can learn about eligibility requirements, how to apply, and when you can expect your payments to be issued.
The FFESP is an important resource for families struggling to make ends meet, offering financial support and additional resources to ensure children’s well-being and stability. Stay informed, stay prepared, and make sure to apply for this valuable assistance program if you meet the criteria.
