Michigan is investing substantial public funding in Rx Kids, a cash assistance program for pregnant women and new mothers that began in Flint and is now expanding to other parts of the state. Supporters say the program reduces poverty, improves child well-being and gives families greater flexibility to address immediate needs. At the same time, the program prompts broader questions about the role of government, the effectiveness of existing welfare efforts and how direct cash assistance fits within Michigan’s overall approach to supporting families.
This event will explore the potential benefits and limitations of Rx Kids. Is direct cash assistance a more effective way to support vulnerable families than traditional public assistance programs, or does it just add to an already extensive system of taxpayer-funded aid? The discussion will consider Rx Kids alongside Michigan’s broader safety net.
Join us for a discussion about poverty policy, family support and how Michigan can best assist young families.
Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Lunch: 11:30am - 12:00pm
Program: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Lunch is Included
The Louie Building (6th floor)
123 W. Allegan St.
Lansing, MI, 48933
Call our Events office at
Event is free, but RSVP is necessary by June 19.
Register online
Mona Hanna, MD, MPH, is a pediatrician, public health expert and director of the Michigan State University-Hurley Children’s Hospital Pediatric Public Health Initiative. She launched the initiative in response to the Flint water crisis and became nationally known for helping uncover the crisis and lead recovery efforts. She is also associate dean for public health and the C.S. Mott Endowed Professor of Public Health at MSU’s College of Human Medicine. Dr. Hanna was named to Time’s 100 Most Influential People list, recognized by USA Today as a Woman of the Century, and is the author of What the Eyes Don’t See.
Michael Van Beek is director of research for the Mackinac Center for Public Policy. He has authored studies on public school finance, school performance, regulatory reform and the use of emergency powers. His analyses and commentaries have appeared in The Wall Street Journal, National Review, The Hill, The Detroit News, the Detroit Free Press and elsewhere. Van Beek obtained his graduate degree in history from Purdue University and an undergraduate degree from Hope College.
Jarrett Skorup is the vice president for marketing and communications at the Mackinac Center for Public Policy. He has held various roles with the communications department including senior director of marketing and communications, and director of the Frank Beckmann Center for Journalism within the Center. His work has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, USA Today, Fox News, National Public Radio, Detroit Free Press, Detroit News and many other publications across the country. He joined the Mackinac Center in 2009 after graduating from Grove City College with degrees in history and political science.
