NEW YORK, NY June 19, 2007 —$53 million will soon be spent on a program aimed at reducing poverty in the city. Beginning as early as September, certain parents who send their children to school regularly will receive a monthly payment. Kids will also receive money for performing better at school.

Some experts worry the program is shortsighted and ignores bigger social problems that keep adults from getting decent jobs and kids from learning. Others believe anything that can ease the strain on struggling family is worth trying. Reporter Cindy Rodriguez is here to explain how the program will work: