City Launches $53 Million Prepaid Card Program for Migrants to Purchase Food and Supplies

Photo byMarkus WinkleronUnsplash

Concerns about the new pilot program that will provide reloadable pre-paid credit cards to migrant families so they may purchase supplies and food are growing. According to the mayor's office, the city is distributing the Immediate Response Cards through a new more affordable technological pilot program that it is launching in collaboration with Mobility Capital Finance.

The non-perishable food boxes that are provided to immigrant families lodging in hotels such as the Roosevelt would be replaced by the initiative.

Currently, food providers under contract with the city assist in supplying food boxes to shelters.

"We will provide pre-paid debit cards to an initial 500 migrant families with children who may use the pre-paid cards exclusively at bodegas, grocery stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores to ensure the money is spent on food and baby supplies." ~ Statement from the office of Eric Adams

The New York Post states this pilot program will cost the city $53 million.

The specifics of the contract state that the amount on each card will change based on the size of the family and whether any income is received. For example, a family of four could receive about $1,000 each month, or $35 per day for food. Refilled cards will be sent out every 28 days.

“Not only will this provide families with the ability to purchase fresh food for their culturally relevant diets and the baby supplies of their choosing, but the pilot program is expected to save New York City more than $600,000 per month, or more than $7.2 million annually,” Adams spokesperson Kayla Mamelak said.

Confirmation of the pre-paid card program came to light one day after The Post revealed another $137 million in contracts with New York City hotels to provide more than 750 rooms to asylum seekers who arrive with children.