Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced that 10,000 children from low-income families will be removed from a waitlist for free childcare. The initiative, a partnership with Gov. Kathy Hochul, is supported by a $1.2 billion investment from the governor’s office.

The Child Care Assistance Program provides subsidized care for children aged six weeks through 13, and up to age 19 for children with special needs. Eligible families will receive vouchers to cover the cost from a provider of their choice. The vouchers could save families up to $17,000 per year.

“For families struggling to make ends meet, and the providers who deliver them high-quality and consistent childcare, access to vouchers is nothing short of transformational. Today’s voucher expansion is a critical step in ensuring no family is left behind in our movement towards universal childcare,” Mamdani said. 

Families will also be able to search for licensed childcare providers that accept vouchers through a new feature on the city’s childcare map and website.

Expanding access to childcare has been a priority for Mamdani since taking office. The initiative follows previous efforts to make childcare and early education more affordable for working-class families. Earlier this year, Mamdani launched the 2-K program, which provided free preschool for more than 2,000 children.

“In partnership with Mayor Mamdani, we’re building a childcare system that lifts up every family, from launching 2-K and expanding 3-K to moving families off waitlists and into high-quality care. No family should struggle to afford the childcare they need and deserve, and I’ll keep fighting to deliver universal childcare for every family across our city and state,” Hochul said.

Childcare providers in low-income neighborhoods rely on vouchers to cover the cost of care.

The initiative has drawn positive reactions from lawmakers, many of whom have expressed support for Mamdani and Hochul’s efforts to expand access to affordable care.

“As a father and a leader in advancing policies and investments that support children and families, I know that access to affordable, quality childcare can shape the stability and future of an entire household,” Council member Kevin C. Riley said.

Families will be able to apply on a rolling basis over the next few months. Under federal guidelines, priority will be given to families whose income is under 300% of the federal poverty level, families experiencing homelessness and families with children who have special needs.