A national economy experiences a sudden, unexpected event that causes a sharp increase in unemployment and a significant decline in household spending. The government is considering two potential policy responses:

• Policy A: A program that provides immediate, one-time cash payments directly to all households to help them manage their expenses.
• Policy B: A long-term initiative to fund the construction of new public infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, over the next five years.

Based on the primary objective of macroeconomic stabilization policy, which of these two policies is the more appropriate immediate response? Justify your choice by explaining how it aligns with the goal of lessening the adverse effects of an economic downturn on the population's wellbeing.