Westchester Children’s Association is proud to celebrate a state budget that takes meaningful steps towards building a strong, more equitable New York for children, youth and families. This year’s enacted budget includes several key victories that directly respond to the needs of communities across New York state, especially those working the hardest to make ends meet.
We extend our gratitude to the New York State Legislature and the Governor for prioritizing the well-being of children and families in this year’s budget. Their leadership resulted in critical investments that will have a lasting impact on the lives of countless children and families across New York State.
Together, we’ve made meaningful progress, and the following highlights from the New York State Budget show just how much is possible when we prioritize children and youth.
| Policy Area | Final Budget Action |
| Empire State Child Credit | – $1,000 per child under age 4 – $500 per child ages 4–16 – Eliminates income phase-in |
| Universal School Meals | – Free school meals for all students in schools participating in the National School Lunch Program |
| Housing Access Voucher Program | – $50 million to launch a 4-year state-funded rental assistance pilot program |
| Child Care Assistance | – $400 million in additional funding for Child Care Assistance Program -$110 million to build new and renovate existing childcare facilities |
| Birth Allowance for Beginning Year (BABY) Benefit | -$8.5 million to provide a one-time $1,800 payment to public assistance recipients upon the birth of a child |
These investments represent a significant step forward in ensuring that every child in New York has the opportunity to grow up healthy, safe, and ready to succeed. By expanding the Empire State Child Credit, more families—especially those with the youngest children—will have the financial support they need to meet basic needs during critical stages of development. Providing Universal School Meals removes barriers to learning and ensures no child is left to learn on an empty stomach. The launch of the Housing Access Voucher Program offers much-needed stability for families at risk of homelessness, creating safer environments where children and youth can thrive. A baby benefit that puts money in the pockets of low-income families to help cover costs associated with the birth of a new child is vital. Finally, increased investment in the Child Care Assistance Program makes it easier for working families to access affordable, high-quality care, laying a strong foundation for early learning and long-term success.
We’re grateful to the champions in the Legislature who made these wins possible, and we remain committed to ensuring these policies are not only enacted but also implemented effectively and equitably across every corner of the state.
At the same time, as critical federal programs face growing uncertainty, New York must continue to lead. For many children and families, essential resources remain out of reach, and without sustained investment and strong advocacy, progress can stall or even be reversed.
That’s why our work doesn’t stop here. We must keep pushing to protect these hard-won gains, expand support where it’s still lacking, and ensure that every child in New York has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of race or zip code.
