Governor Hochul Unveils $350 Million in Direct Financial Aid for Low- and Moderate-Income Families in New York

The Empire State Child Credit program is set to provide much-needed financial relief to low-income families in New York. Acting Tax Commissioner Amanda Hiller emphasized the importance of these supplemental payments, stating that they will help drive financial stability for families struggling to keep up with the high cost of living. The payments are scheduled to begin next week and will be completed by the end of the month, just in time for back-to-school expenses and other essential needs.

Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn echoed Commissioner Hiller’s sentiments, highlighting Governor Hochul’s commitment to addressing poverty and empowering families in the state. The Empire State Child Credit program is a key component of these efforts, providing a much-needed financial boost to families with children. This credit aims to put money directly into the hands of those who need it most, helping to alleviate the financial burdens faced by many New Yorkers.

OCFS Commissioner DaMia Harris-Madden praised Governor Hochul’s dedication to strengthening New York families, citing the various initiatives aimed at providing financial stability for families. From the Child Care Assistance Program to the Empire State Child Credit, these investments are crucial in creating a pathway to equity and independence for all children and families in the state.

State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal emphasized the importance of supporting low- and moderate-income New Yorkers, especially as the cost of living continues to rise. The Empire State Child Credit program will provide over one million families with supplemental payments to assist with childcare expenses, offering up to $330 per child. This $350 million investment demonstrates the state government’s commitment to supporting families in need.

State Senator Roxanne Persaud commended Governor Hochul for her efforts in supporting low and moderate-income families across New York State. The Empire State Child Credit program will assist over one million eligible families with the rising costs of living and raising a family in America, providing much-needed financial relief to those who need it most.

State Senator Andrew Gounardes highlighted the struggles faced by working families in New York and the importance of providing them with resources to thrive. The expanded Empire State Child Credit is a crucial step towards creating a tax system that works for all New Yorkers, offering direct financial assistance to families in need. Governor Hochul’s commitment to supporting families was praised, as the program aims to ease the financial burdens faced by many families across the state.

Assemblymember Helene Weinstein expressed pride in including the Empire State Child Credit in the state budget, emphasizing the importance of putting money back into the pockets of hard-working New Yorkers. This initiative allows families to use the funds in the best way for their family, providing much-needed financial support during challenging times.

Assemblymember Andrew Hevesi credited advocate partners for their unwavering efforts in securing this historic investment in New York’s working class. The Empire State Child Credit program will provide direct financial assistance to families in need, offering relief to those struggling to make ends meet. This initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Governor Hochul, legislative leaders, and advocates who worked tirelessly to bring this program to fruition.

Assemblymember Kimberly Jean-Pierre applauded Governor Hochul’s commitment to supporting New York families through the Empire State Child Credit program. These payments will help ease families’ financial burdens as they navigate the increasing costs of daily living, including food, clothing, childcare, and housing expenses. By expanding access to this program, Governor Hochul and the State Legislature are making a significant impact on the lives of working families, ensuring that children receive the necessary support to thrive.

Assemblymember Clyde Vanel emphasized the state government’s commitment to making New York affordable for low and moderate-income families. By providing financial support through programs like the Empire State Child Credit, the state aims to create a place where working-class families can live, work, and grow without financial strain.

Assemblymember Demond Meeks thanked Governor Hochul and his colleagues in the legislature for their ongoing commitment to supporting children and families in need. The refundable child tax credit provided through the Empire State Child Credit program will offer direct financial assistance to low- and moderate-income families, helping to alleviate the high cost of living and childcare expenses. It is essential for parents and elected officials to continue delivering support and resources that benefit the community as a whole.

Assemblymember Jen Lunsford emphasized the importance of putting money back into the pockets of New York families, especially during challenging times. Direct cash payments to households with children have been proven to lift families out of poverty, providing much-needed relief. The increase in the child tax credit, along with additional supports for childcare and property tax rebates, will help families navigate the financial challenges they face.

Assemblymember Sarah Clark highlighted the effectiveness of unrestricted cash payments in assisting families in need. The supplemental payments through the Empire State Child Credit program will benefit over one million families as they shop for essentials like clothes, food, and back-to-school items. These payments aim to level the playing field for children across New York, providing much-needed support to families in need.

Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas expressed pride in the work accomplished through the Empire State Child Credit program, emphasizing the importance of supporting low and middle-income families. As the cost of living continues to rise, efforts to reduce disparities and address hunger epidemics are crucial. The program will provide much-needed relief for families struggling to make ends meet, with a focus on creating a more equitable and supportive environment for all New Yorkers.

Northern Rivers Family of Services CEO William Gettman commended Governor Hochul for her continued investments in families and children. The Empire State child tax credit will provide positive hope and future education gains for families in need, helping to alleviate poverty and create a brighter tomorrow for all.

United Way of the Greater Capital Region President & CEO Peter Gannon praised Governor Hochul for her commitment to reducing child poverty in New York. The $350 million in supplemental payments through the Empire State Child Credit program will offer much-needed relief to over one million families, particularly those classified as ALICE households. This financial support comes at a crucial time, providing families with the resources they need to make ends meet and support their children with confidence and stability.

Schuyler Center for Analysis and Advocacy President & CEO Kate Breslin highlighted the value of direct cash benefits in reducing stress and providing families with the resources they need to thrive. The Empire State Child Credit program is a crucial tool in mitigating the affordability crisis facing many New York families, allowing parents to use resources in ways that best meet their family’s needs. This type of payment empowers families to make decisions that benefit their children’s well-being, whether it’s purchasing essentials like food, clothing, or school supplies.

The Education Trust–NY Director of Partnerships and Early Childhood Policy Jenn O’Connor praised the expansion of the Empire State Child Credit as a promising step towards reducing childhood poverty in New York. Tax credits have been proven effective in lifting families out of poverty, with a particular focus on addressing disparities faced by Black, Hispanic/Latino, and multi-racial families. Collaborative efforts between the Governor and State Legislature will continue to enhance poverty-reduction strategies, including more tax credits, expanded childcare, and early literacy programs.

New York Immigration Coalition Director of Economic Justice and Family Empowerment Liza Schwartzwald commended the expansion of the Empire State Child Credit program for providing relief to over one million families in need. As the cost of living continues to rise, financial supports like these are crucial in helping families make ends meet and invest in their local economies. The program aims to build a more affordable New York where every resident has a fair shot at thriving, regardless of income or immigration status.

The Children’s Agenda CEO Larry Marx applauded Governor Hochul and the state legislature for their efforts in easing economic hardships for New York families. The Empire State Child Credit program offers a lifeline to hard-pressed families, providing much-needed financial support during challenging times. By utilizing the state’s child tax credit effectively, New York can continue to build on and improve its family tax credits for lasting impact.