New York City plans to offer free childcare vouchers to more than 10,000 children from low-income families who are on a waiting list, Mayor Zohran Mamdani said Monday.
More than 29,000 children are currently waiting for vouchers. The list began in May 2025, when demand exceeded the number available, Mamdani said. City Hall said the vouchers cover children from 6 weeks through age 13, and children with special needs through age 19.
Over the next few months, the city will invite families to apply in stages. It will prioritize those earning less than 300% of the federal poverty level, families experiencing homelessness and families with a child who has special needs. Eligible families can choose their childcare provider and use a new online tool to find licensed programs that accept vouchers.
Gov. Kathy Hochul previously pledged $1.2 billion for the city’s universal childcare program, including $475 million to support and expand vouchers, Mamdani said. The city also launched a free program for 2-year-olds last month, initially serving about 2,000 children.
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