As child advocates, we know that early and consistent support in the life of a child sets him or her on course for healthy development and success in school and in life.

Unfortunately many critical programs that children and families depend on are at-risk if action is not taken by New York State’s leaders to address the cuts and cost-shifts in the FY 2020-21 Executive Budget.

Yesterday, CCC met with legislators and their staff in Albany on our legislative and budget priorities. We had the opportunity to explain how the Governor’s proposals would cripple the ability of New York City and other local governments to address families’ desperate needs for support around health care, homelessness, childcare, child abuse and neglect prevention, and behavioral health

We also rallied with partners for a press conference in the Capitol in support of the Home Stability Support (HSS) bill, one of our top priorities in our state budget advocacy with the Family Homelessness Coalition this session. HSS would provide a statewide rental subsidy which would serve families and individuals who are eligible for public assistance and facing eviction, homelessness or have lost housing due to domestic violence or hazardous conditions.

As we continue advocating for budget and legislative priorities to address the needs of children and families, it’s incumbent upon us to remain vocal in our advocacy. If you have not already, we hope you will take a few moments to write Governor Cuomo and your representatives in the State Senate and Assembly and urge them to protect the health and human services upon which New York’s children and families rely.

Download our SFY 2021 Budget Priorities here.