ALBANY, N.Y. (WENY) — A new online tool to help families access child care in New York was launched this week.
According to the state, the new online screening tool will help parents determine their eligibility for financial support. The state says the tool is also aimed at making the application process easier for families so they can figure out which services they are eligible for.
“As a mother who put her career on pause due to a lack of affordable child care, I understand first-hand how important this lifeline is for families,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “Complimenting the major investments made in funding child care, we are taking significant steps to improve the process of finding care, widen program eligibility, and support our workforce to ensure all New Yorkers have access to these critical resources.”
The governor’s office says families can complete an optional online questionnaire, which immediately lets them know whether they meet the basic criteria for eligibility and then directs them to the local department of social services to apply for funding.
The new online tool is available to the general public in 12 languages on the New York State Office of Children and Family Services’ website and can be accessed anywhere, anytime with a computer or mobile device.
Hochul first announced the statewide electronic pre-screening tool as part of her State of the State address in January.
To access the tool, click here.
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