New York State Launches Universal Child Care Initiative

Free Child Care for Two-Year-Olds:: NYC will offer free child care for two-year-olds, starting in high-need areas and expanding citywide.

Universal Pre-K Expansion:: The state is committed to achieving truly universal Pre-K for all four-year-olds by the 2028-29 school year.

Financial Investment:: New York is investing billions in child care infrastructure, including subsidies and support for child care providers.

Office of Child Care and Early Education:: A new office will oversee the implementation of universal child care, ensuring high-quality programs and workforce support.

2-Care Program:: In partnership with Mayor Mamdani, New York City will launch the 2-Care program, offering free child care for two-year-olds. This program will initially focus on high-need areas before expanding citywide.

Universal 3K Access:: The initiative aims to strengthen and expand the city's 3K program, ensuring universal access for all families.

Statewide Pre-K:: The state will provide additional support to ensure universal Pre-K for all four-year-olds by the 2028-2029 school year. This includes funding for additional seats and increased funding for existing seats, ensuring high-quality Pre-K programs.

Child Care Subsidies:: New York has more than doubled investment in the state's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), providing subsidies to low-income families. Most families pay no more than $15 a week for child care.

Community Care Models:: Innovative pilot projects will be launched in counties outside of New York City to provide affordable, year-round, full-day care for families, regardless of income.

Stay informed:: Keep up-to-date with announcements from the Mayor's Office and the Governor's Office regarding program rollouts and eligibility criteria.

Contact local representatives:: Reach out to local government officials to express your support and learn more about how the program will be implemented in your community.

Working families with young children, particularly those in low-income households.

Child care providers and educators, who will benefit from increased funding and support.

Q: How can I enroll my two-year-old in the free child care program in NYC?

Q: When will universal Pre-K be available statewide?

Q: What if I don't live in NYC? Are there programs for me?

New York State is committed to providing affordable, high-quality child care for all families.

Free child care for two-year-olds will be available in NYC, with plans to expand citywide.

Universal Pre-K is on the horizon for all four-year-olds in the state.

The initiative includes significant financial investments and support for child care providers.

This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden of child care and ensure that all children have access to early education.