In the News

News and updates relevant to Family Child Care in New York State

Governor's Office  ·  January 14, 2026

Governor Hochul Announces Child Care Expansion Pilot Partnerships With 3 Counties

As part of a $4.5 billion investment in universal child care, Governor Hochul announced a $60 million pilot program partnering with Dutchess, Monroe, and Broome Counties to expand child care access for children aged 0–3. Each county will receive $20 million in state funding, with programs supporting up to 1,000 new seats per county beginning in 2027.

Spectrum News  ·  January 6, 2026

Child Care Takes Center Stage in Albany Amid Talk of Federal Funding Freeze

As New York's 2026 legislative session kicked off with universal child care as a top priority, the Trump Administration announced a pause on $10 million in federal social services funding to several Democratic-led states — including key child care program funds. Advocates warned that federal dollars make up nearly half of New York's $2.2 billion Child Care Assistance Program, urging Albany to prioritize full program funding and workforce investment.

NY Office of Children & Family Services  ·  March 5, 2026

OCFS Partners With Dolly Parton's Imagination Library to Boost Early Literacy

OCFS has launched a partnership with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, distributing up to $1 million in grants to help local libraries, schools, and non-profits provide free monthly age-appropriate books to children up to age 5. Individual grants range from $2,000 to $50,000 and cover up to 50% of program costs. Applications are due to OCFS by April 30, 2026 — eligible organizations include NYS 501(c)(3) libraries, public library systems, non-profits, school districts, and BOCES.

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