Mayor Scott signs Baltimore Baby Fund executive order, voters to decide this fall

BALTIMORE (WBFF) — Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott announced the signing of the Baltimore Baby Fund executive order on Wednesday, the Mayor’s Office said.

If approved by City voters this fall, it would establish the fund as a financial source of support for families with newborns in Baltimore.

“The Baltimore Baby Fund aims to enhance the economic stability of families with newborns in Baltimore, and is the natural evolution of the City’s Baltimore Young Families Success Fund,” said officials.

Funds would help families meet needs including childcare, transportation, food, and other expenses. The fund would not replace existing City spending from fiscal year 2027 and would remain available from year to year if unspent.

“We know from experience — and from research — that direct cash payments to parents is one of the best ways to help families and young people succeed in the short and long term,” said Mayor Scott.

Benefits within the Baltimore Baby Fund include:

Universal Newborn Benefit

All Baltimore City newborns, if enrolled in the program, will be eligible for a one-time cash payment of an amount to be determined by the program.

Enhanced Family Benefits

Based on eligibility criteria and screening conducted during the program enrollment process, selected expectant and new parents may be eligible for additional assistance, including:

• A one-time cash payment during pregnancy
• Monthly cash assistance following the birth of the child
• A contribution toward a Maryland 529 college savings account for the child
• Connection to B’More for Healthy Babies for care coordination support and health services

The full executive order can be viewed below.