

“The aim is to improve the well-being of children and families, while also having long-term benefits for the economy as a whole,” the group says on its website.
“By voting YES on the upcoming November ballot, you can help improve the well-being of children and families in our community while also contributing to long-term economic benefits.”
The plan is reminiscent of countries around the world that offer various bonuses, whether in the form of cash or supplies, to new parents in order to help them raise their children and, in many cases, as an attempt to buoy low birth rates.
“Families can’t afford the things that they need, and you’re left with this terrible recipe where that could impact a kid forever,” Nate Golden, president of the Maryland Child Alliance, told the Baltimore Sun.
“We want all kids lifted out of poverty, but where do you get the most bang for your buck? It’s with babies and newborns.”
City ballot measures almost always pass, the Baltimore Sun reported; voters in Baltimore haven’t rejected a ballot question since 2004. Election Day is Nov. 5.