ALBANY – Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Wednesday that child care services will expand to evenings and weekends at 11 State University of New York (SUNY) community colleges. The move aims to better serve student parents, particularly those enrolled in high-demand programs such as SUNY Reconnect, and to create more slots for infants and toddlers.

The expansion follows successful pilot programs at Dutchess Community College and Monroe Community College, which drew immediate interest from other campuses.

“We are investing in the futures of our adult learners and student parents to ensure they can pursue and achieve their dreams,” Hochul said in a statement. “Through the expansion of child care across SUNY’s community college campuses, the SUNY Reconnect program, and dedicated support initiatives, we are reinforcing our commitment to meeting the needs of adult learners and offering them a path to upward mobility.”

The additional child care hours will support adults in the SUNY Reconnect initiative, which provides free tuition, fees, books and supplies for New Yorkers ages 25 to 55 who do not already have a college degree and want to earn an associate degree in a high-demand field. The effort is part of Hochul’s priority to deliver universal child care for children under five across the state.

SUNY Chancellor John King Jr. said the expanded services will help student parents focus on their studies by removing barriers to safe, affordable child care. “Thank you to Governor Hochul for her leadership, support, and investment in this initiative,” King said in a statement.

SUNY Dutchess will add two weeknights and expand slots for infants and toddlers.  Rockland and Westchester Community Colleges are creating additional spots for infants and toddlers.


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