The $53 million aid program will result in hundreds of illegal immigrant families receiving more money for food than low-income citizens.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams found himself in the hot seat as he defended the city’s controversial $53 million aid program on Monday. The initiative has sparked uproar due to its provision of greater financial assistance for food to hundreds of illegal immigrant families compared to low-income citizens. Even rapper 50 Cent joined the chorus of criticism, taking to social media to ridicule the plan.

In response to the backlash, Mayor Adams expressed a willingness to engage with critics, including 50 Cent, stating that he would be happy to clarify any questions. He playfully remarked that perhaps the rapper might even compose a song about him once he understands the rationale behind the program.

Addressing misconceptions about the aid distribution, Adams clarified during a press conference that the program does not involve giving American Express cards to everyone, contrary to earlier reports. Instead, it offers prepaid debit cards to 500 migrant families with children, providing each participant with approximately $12.52 per day, totaling around $350 a month for food and baby supplies.

Comparatively, the maximum monthly allotment for low-income New Yorkers under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is $291, exclusively for food purchases. The new program, like SNAP, imposes restrictions on where the funds can be spent, limiting usage to bodegas, grocery stores, and supermarkets, specifically for food and baby supplies, thus supporting local businesses.

Mayor Adams and his team defended the initiative as a “cost-saving measure,” estimating potential monthly savings of $600,000 and an annual total of $7.2 million. This would be achieved by reducing the manpower required for food delivery to hotels housing migrants, thereby redirecting funds back into the local economy.

Despite criticism from figures such as Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who labeled the program as “insanity” and “offensive” amid concerns about illegal immigration policies, Mayor Adams maintained his stance, asserting that the program is a “smart policy shift.” He expressed intentions to expand the initiative if deemed successful, emphasizing its potential benefits for New York City and its residents.