The New York Child Care Affordability Fund is a collaborative philanthropic effort to support nonprofits’ advocacy for statewide universal child care for all children from birth to age five.
Establishing a universal child care system in New York will require a fundamental shift in how we view the work of raising young children: For decades, child care has been treated largely as a private obligation rather than a public good. But momentum for universal child care is growing because the need is both urgent and widespread. If implemented effectively, universal child care can help children thrive, increase families’ economic security, reduce the gender-based pay gap, and strengthen New York State’s economy. It can also offer a model for other states. When public systems work as promised—delivering reliable, high-quality services at scale—they strengthen confidence in government’s ability to solve problems.
The New York Childcare Affordability Fund prioritizes support for organizations that:
- represent multiracial, grassroots communities, ensuring child care rises to the top of a broader governing agenda;
- organize unlikely allies, including small and large businesses, to demonstrate a wide mandate and minimize opposition;
- build power in rural and upstate regions, so universal child care is understood as a statewide priority; and
- recruit, train, and mobilize those most impacted by this issue: parents, child-care providers, and caregivers as visible leaders and advocates.
Prospective grantees are encouraged to reach out to the Fund’s advisors, Elana Leopold and Sochie Nnaemeka, at nyccaf@thenytrust.org for more information.
If you are interested in contributing to the Fund, please contact Leigh Ross, Program Director, Gender Equity, Early Childhood, and Arts Education, at lross@thenytrust.org.