Sacramento County is rolling out targeted financial assistance to support families with young children through the Family First Empowerment Support Program (FFESP). With the deadline to apply quickly approaching on Sunday, April 27, 2025, families are urged to act fast if they hope to receive $725 in monthly payments starting this summer.
Below is everything you need to know about the program, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
What Is the Sacramento Family First Empowerment Support Program?
The Family First Empowerment Support Program (FFESP) is a local initiative aimed at preventing foster care placements by strengthening financial support for families raising young children. Funded by a state block grant from the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) and private donors, the program is managed by Sacramento’s Department of Child, Family, and Adult Services (DCFAS).
This program was created to achieve three main goals:
- Reduce child abuse and neglect
- Lower the number of children entering foster care
- Improve financial security for struggling households
By providing direct monthly support, Sacramento County is investing in family stability and child welfare.
Who Qualifies for FFESP?
Eligibility is determined based on income, residency, and household composition.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Reside in eligible ZIP codes within Sacramento County
- Be the legal guardian of a child aged 0 to 5
- Have a household income below 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL)
The income limits vary by household size, as shown in the table below:
| Household Size | 200% of FPL (Annual Income) |
|---|---|
| 2 | $39,440 |
| 3 | $49,720 |
| 4 | $60,000 |
| 5 | $70,280 |
| 6 | $80,560 |
Note: These figures are based on 2025 poverty guidelines and may vary slightly depending on updates.
How Much Will Families Receive?
Qualified families will receive $725 per month, with the first payments beginning in mid-June 2025. These are recurring payments, not one-time assistance, offering continued financial relief for several months.
This is different from other state-level programs like Colorado’s TABOR refunds, which provide a one-time payment of $800 for individuals or $1,600 for couples. In contrast, Sacramento’s FFESP provides ongoing monthly income to help families plan, save, and reduce financial stress.
How to Apply
Applications must be completed online only through the official website:
ffesp.org
Required documents include:
- Proof of Sacramento County residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)
- Verification of household income
- Legal documentation of guardianship for a child aged 0–5
No paper applications are accepted, and late submissions will be rejected. The deadline is Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 11:59 PM.
Why Programs Like FFESP Matter
Local stimulus initiatives like FFESP demonstrate how counties can take proactive steps to support residents—especially those with young children. While federal aid programs often move slowly, local governments are leveraging state grants and private funding to create timely, community-specific solutions.
Whether it’s a one-time tax rebate or monthly direct payments, these programs aim to improve economic stability and prevent crises like homelessness, neglect, or foster care placements.
Sacramento County families who meet the eligibility criteria are strongly encouraged to apply before the April 27 deadline. Even a short delay could mean missing out on valuable monthly support. With $725 payments on the table, this opportunity could provide meaningful financial relief and help stabilize households as early as this summer.
FAQs:
Can I apply if I’m a grandparent or relative caregiver?
Yes, as long as you are the legal guardian of a child aged 0–5 and meet income and residency requirements.
What ZIP codes qualify for FFESP?
Eligible ZIP codes are listed on the FFESP website. Applicants must live within Sacramento County.
Is this taxable income?
These payments are considered public assistance and are generally not taxable, but consult a tax professional for specific advice.
