Applaud New York Leaders for Expanding Universal Child Care

New York leaders are delivering a major win for working families. Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Zohran Mamdani have unveiled a bold expansion of free, universal child care — a transformative step toward making high-quality care accessible to every family, regardless of income. This plan brings New York City closer to Mamdani’s promise of free child care for all children under five and expands support for families across the state.

By fully funding free care for 2-year-olds, expanding the city’s 3K program, and moving toward universal pre-K statewide, this initiative will open the door to child care and early education for nearly 100,000 more children. At a time when families are struggling with rising costs and child care shortages, Hochul and Mamdani are proving that government can step up to meet real needs — easing financial pressure on parents, supporting child development, and strengthening communities.

This is people-powered progress in action. It shows what’s possible when leaders listen to families, invest in children, and refuse to accept that affordability crises are inevitable. While others threaten cuts, New York is choosing to lead with care, dignity, and opportunity.

Add your name to applaud Governor Hochul and Mayor Zohran Mamdani for expanding free, universal child care, standing up for working families, and making a historic investment in New York’s children and future!