Albany officials heard the voices of parents and union advocates and recently released $10 million to add slots for 1,400 youngsters to the Liberty Zone Child Care Project. Now eligible parents who either live or work in the Liberty Zone (14th Street to the Battery) and who fall within the income guidelines can apply for child care subsidies. The subsidies can be used for any day care, after school or informal care provider that applicants select, as long as their designated provider is willing to accept payment through a voucher system and is located within the five boroughs.

DC 37 is part of the Union Child Care Coalition that lobbies New York State legislators for quality, affordable child care. Union activists bused to Albany in March to press for the increased subsidies. On July 20, members used their lunch hour to come to DC 37 and take advantage of an expedited enrollment process for child care subsidies.

“I’m glad the union is supporting this. It’s tremendously important to families,” said Janice Hailey, who works for the Human Resources Administration and is a member of Clerical-Administrative Employees Local 1549.

Local 1549 member Keisha Oliver seconded that opinion. “This program helps us out a lot,” said the young mother. Child care is very expensive and really, our pay doesn’t cover it!”

Social Service Employees Union Local 371 member Andre Smalls participated in the enrollment on July 20. Mr. Smalls is a Community Assistant for the Administration for Children’s Services and the father of children aged 3, 6, and 11.

“This is a really good thing,” he said. “The city is trying to eliminate after school programs and we need them, especially in poor communities.” He expressed his support of the union’s campaign to win funds for child care. “Thank God for DC 37. I appreciate it. It shows that someone cares. With prices rising, it’s hard to support your family.”

For further information, members can contact Jocelyn Mazurkiewicz at 212-494-0586.