Families who are part of the Family Independence Program (FIP), may qualify for a back-to-school clothing allowance this month. The program gives families $400 per child to help with the cost of school clothing as they prepare for a new school year. Last year, families received $529 per child for clothing.
According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, the funds will automatically be added to families' Bridge Cards. The allowance is part of the 2025 Fiscal Appropriations Act and is to be used specifically for helping families afford back-to-school clothing.
A letter from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services was mailed to eligible clothing households in July.
Mother of five, Heather Goree of Monroe, is hopeful her family will qualify for the funds. Her family has a Bridge Card and currently receives food assistance.
"My oldest just graduated but I still have four in school," Goree said. "Me and my husband both work. It costs a lot of money to raise kids. It would help us tremendously if were are able to get that help.”
More: First day of school reported for 29 Monroe County districts, schools
What to know
Amount: $400 per child.
Who’s eligible: Families with an active FIP case with eligible dependent children as of July 31, 2025.
How is it paid? Beginning Aug.1, it will automatically be added to the family’s Bridge Card. To see if the money has been deposited, check the benefits.
Is there a limit? Yes. Once the funds are used, no additional dollars will be issued.
Is this added income? No. This allowance is not counted as income for other assistance programs.
Do you qualify? You can find out by contacting the Bridges Resource Center. There may be other benefits you may be eligible to apply for.
— Contact reporter Lisa Vidaurri-Bowling at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Michigan families may qualify for $400 back-to-school clothing allowance.
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