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Brilliant Baby Program

How to access, complete, and submit an application for the Brilliant Baby program in Oakland, California.

What is the Brilliant Baby Program?

The Brilliant Baby program is an initiative by Oakland Promise aimed at supporting the early development and school-readiness of children in Oakland. It provides families with a $500 college savings account, financial literacy classes, one-on-one financial coaching, and access to community resources. The program is designed to empower parents and caregivers, helping them plan for their child's future educational success.

How do I apply for Brilliant Baby?

To apply for the Brilliant Baby program:

  1. Ensure your child meets the following criteria:

    • Under the age of 3.

    • Born in Alameda County and currently residing in Oakland.

    • Your household is eligible for Medi-Cal, WIC, SNAP, or TANF.

  2. If your child meets the eligibility requirements, you can sign up for an enrollment appointment through the Brilliant Baby Enrollment Portal.Oakland Promise.

How long does it take to receive funds from Brilliant Baby?

After enrolling and attending the required financial literacy classes, families can receive a $250 stipend. Stipends are processed starting on the 25th of each month and are typically received within the first two weeks of the following month.

What do the application steps look like?

  1. Confirm that your child meets the age, residency, and income requirements.

  2. Sign up for an enrollment appointment through the Brilliant Baby Enrollment Portal.

  3. Participate in an orientation meeting to learn about the program's benefits.

  4. After orientation, you'll be invited to join a 3-week financial literacy class.

  5. Upon completing the classes, you'll receive a $250 stipend.

  6. A $500 college savings account will be set up for your child.

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

You may need to provide the following documentation:

  • Proof of Child's Age: Birth certificate or other official document.

  • Proof of Residency: Utility bill, lease agreement, or other document showing your address in Oakland.

  • Income Verification: Documentation showing eligibility for Medi-Cal, WIC, SNAP, or TANF.

  • Identification: Government-issued ID for the parent or guardian.

Please ensure all documents are current and legible to avoid delays in processing.

Common FAQs

  1. Who is eligible for the Brilliant Baby program?

    Children under the age of 3, born in Alameda County, residing in Oakland, and whose families are eligible for Medi-Cal, WIC, SNAP, or TANF.

  2. Is there a cost to participate?

    No, the program is free for eligible families.

  3. Can I apply if my child is over 3 years old?

    No, the program is specifically for children under the age of 3.

  4. How is the $500 college savings account managed?

    The account is held at my529, a reputable college savings company, and is owned by Oakland Promise. Parents can monitor the account online and receive quarterly statements.

  5. What happens if I miss a class or appointment?

    It's important to attend all scheduled classes and appointments. If you miss one, contact the program coordinator to reschedule or discuss alternative arrangements.

Who do I contact about my application status?

For assistance or to inquire about your application status:

If you have any other questions or would like to speak to a Mirza Application Specialist, please email support@heymirza.com.