FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, April 24, 2025

CONTACT: Michelle Robinson, PhD
mrobinson@ffbww.org, 608-305-4422

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‍Madison, WI – In a bold step toward advancing health equity and economic justice, the Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness (FFBWW) has unveiled Madison Forward Fund 2.0 (MFF 2.0), a groundbreaking guaranteed income initiative aimed at transforming the lives of Black mothers and families. Announced during the organization’s 5th Annual Black Maternal and Child Health Virtual Summit as part of Black Maternal Health Week on April 17th, MFF 2.0 builds on the success of the original Madison Forward Fund led by the City of Madison. Designed as both a maternal and early childhood health initiative and an economic development strategy, this next phase led by FFBWW will provide direct, no-strings-attached cash support combined with critical social services to improve the economic stability and health outcomes of vulnerable women and families.
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“We know that economic security is foundational to good health and well-being, and when we make it possible, real change happens,” said Lisa Peyton, FFBWW CEO. “With MFF 2.0, we’re not just putting cash in people’s hands—we are affirming that Black women deserve the resources to thrive and be self-determined. As our 2019 Saving Our Babies Report showed, economic insecurity is a leading driver of poor maternal and child health, but there are solutions. Guaranteed income is a proven tool to reduce poverty and promote stability—and when paired with holistic support, it can transform lives.”
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Through the Foundation’s MFF 2.0, 42 Dane County families—randomly selected from FFBWW’s maternal and child health programs—will receive $500 per month for 12 months, helping to relieve financial burdens and support long-term stability.
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Launched in March 2025, MFF 2.0 is powered by the generous support of sponsoring funders: Trustage, American Family Insurance, PRL Keystone Foundation, Dan & Patti Rashke (TASC) Family Foundation, UW Health, Madison Gas & Electric, and SSM Health. FFBWW also thanks TASC, the program’s disbursement partner, and the City of Madison for continued GI leadership. Together, they demonstrate what’s possible when community, philanthropy, and government center dignity, equity, and care in practice.

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Beyond Cash: Community-Based Social Supports

MFF 2.0 enhances its impact by offering participants no-cost, culturally tailored wraparound supports—including financial coaching, peer and mental health support, maternal wellness services, and assistance with housing, nutrition, healthcare, employment, and transportation gaps.
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“Cash alone isn’t enough—it’s about a network of support that ensures families can flourish,” said Gabe Doyle, FFBWW’s Chief Health Initiatives Officer who leads the organization’s community and maternal health team. “We’re fostering long-term stability and resilience by connecting families to critical, community-driven resources that support their overall well-being.”

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Why Guaranteed Income Matters for Maternal and Child Health

Financial stress is a known driver of poor pregnancy outcomes, especially among Black women who face disproportionately high rates of maternal mortality, preterm birth, and economic hardship.
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“Our goal is for every Black pregnant person to have the opportunity for a healthy pregnancy and thriving postpartum,” said Dr. Michelle Robinson, Chief Programs and Partnerships Officer. “Baseline data from our participants tells a stark story: median incomes of just $18,390, most with two children, nearly 60% experiencing food insecurity, and 38% fearing housing loss. Over two-thirds reported their physical or mental health has recently impacted daily functioning.”
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Doyle and Robinson say that guaranteed income offers these families the flexibility and dignity to make choices that support their health—whether accessing prenatal care, securing safe housing, putting food on the table, or escaping unsafe environments.

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A Bold Step Toward Economic Justice

MFF 2.0 is part of a growing movement to reimagine economic and maternal health policy through direct, community-rooted investment. As it unfolds, it will serve as a model for local and national transformation.
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For more information about Madison Forward Fund 2.0 and the Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness, visit www.ffbww.org/mff2.

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About the Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness
The Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness is a Wisconsin-based nonprofit committed to eliminating health disparities and advancing economic security for Black women and their families. Through advocacy, education, and direct support, the organization works to ensure that all Black women have the opportunity to live long, healthy, and thriving lives. To learn more, visit www.ffbww.org .