With threats to federal funding and programs looming, New York state must recommit to ensuring economic stability and supports for children and youth in the FY26 budget. To do this, the State must invest in the following: 

• $10 million investment for the Foster Youth Success College Initiative (FYSCI) ensuring essential support in higher education for youth with a foster care background.
• The Governor’s proposed changes to the Foundation Aid formula would result in a loss of $350M for NYC Schools, which is why we urge that the final budget includes the Senate’s proposal to increase the regional cost index for NYC from 1.425 to 1.464 and the Assembly’s  proposed language to increase the weight for English Language Learners.
• Permanent increase of the Empire State Child Credit from $330 to $1,500 for all children 0-18 and index it to inflation, reducing child poverty by more than 23%.
• Raise SNAP minimum benefits from $50 to $100/month to combat hunger, improve health outcomes, and maximize participation in SNAP.
• Fully fund Nourish NY and Hunger Prevention Nutrition Assistance Program (HPNAP) at $75 million each, plus $2 million for the Nutrition Outreach and Education Program. These programs support a statewide network of food relief organizations.
• Fully fund Healthy School Meals for all students.

Please join us in urging New York state legislators to prioritize equity in education, economic stability, and food security in the FY 26 budget. Send an email to your state legislators today!