New York City's child care vouchers risk cancellation soon

New York City’s child care voucher program for low-income families faces a financial crisis. These vouchers have been crucial for many families as the cost of child care has surged. However, they might disappear soon if state lawmakers do not act quickly. The Administration for Children's Services (A.C.S.) has provided over 60,000 vouchers, but the program needs an extra $1 billion in state funding to continue. The urgency is increasing as a budget deadline approaches on April 1. This funding gap has developed due to the end of COVID-19 policies and rising care costs. The cost of center-based care for young children in the city has soared. Last year, it averaged $26,000, a 43% increase since 2019. Families must earn at least $334,000 annually to afford care for a two-year-old. Yet, the median income for a family of three in the region was only $139,800 in 2024. As negotiations continue, many families are hoping for a resolution before it's too late.