Statement from United Way of New York City President and CEO Grace Bonilla on Governor Hochul’s Plan to Fund Universal Childcare

Statement from United Way of New York City President and CEO Grace Bonilla on Governor Hochul's Plan to Fund Universal Childcare

Jan 8, 2026| Blog, Blog Featured Articles, Education Equity, News, News Featured Articles

January 8, 2026

United Way of New York City (UWNYC) applauds Governor Hochul for her $4.5 billion commitment to expanding universal child care and increasing access to affordable care for more than 100,000 additional children across New York State. This historic investment advances universal 3-K statewide, ensures New York City's 3-K program reaches all families, fully funds the first two years of the city's 2-K expansion, and increases child care vouchers for low-income families across the five boroughs. Together with Mayor Mamdani, this partnership represents a significant step forward in addressing one of the most urgent challenges facing New York's families.

At UWNYC, we see every day how costly childcare is squeezing hardworking families who are already struggling to make ends meet. Amid the broader affordability crisis, childcare costs continue to rise and take up a growing share of household budgets. Fifty-six percent of New Yorkers are struggling to afford basic needs, forcing families to make impossible tradeoffs between keeping children safe and cared for and paying for food, rent, and healthcare. Ultimately, many of our neighbors are being pushed to consider leaving the city and state altogether.

We thank Governor Hochul for recognizing that low-cost, reliable, and high-quality childcare is essential to the well-being of working families and the strength of New York's workforce. This investment lays the groundwork for improved long-term outcomes for children, parents, and communities statewide. When public policy reflects the lived experience of New Yorkers, it creates the conditions for lasting, meaningful change.

UWNYC looks forward to continuing to work alongside government leaders and community partners to help ensure these investments are implemented effectively and reach the families who need them most.

To learn more, visit unitedwaynyc.org/.