The NYS Legislature has agreed on budget cuts to help balance the state’s deficit.  Luckily, last night the Governor proposed holding child care subsidies harmless from cuts and the Legislature approved his proposal. They had previously agreed to exempt Pre-K from the across-the-board reductions.

This is big news for early learning!  Tell Governor Paterson and your elected representatives how pleased you are that they chose to protect these programs - and encourage them to continue supporting and investing in early learning as they look toward the next budget cycle.

Send the letter below to the Governor and to your legislators and thank them for exempting child care subsidies and Pre-K programs!

Sample Letter for Campaign

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am writing to thank you for exempting child care subsidies and Pre-K programs from the recent budget cuts.

As you know, early learning is critically important to children and families. Because you held child care subsidies harmless, many low-income parents will be able to send their children to a safe, nurturing environment while they are at work. Because you held Pre-K programs harmless, New York State can continue to expand its universal program and include more children in high-quality programs.

I hope to see greater investments in early learning during the upcoming budget cycle. Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
August 20, 2008