Proclamation
Whereas, the State of New York is deeply committed to uplifting all family units—notably through a comprehensive child support program that ensures reliable financial stability—affirming that no household navigates the joys and challenges of raising children without a robust network of state resources and community support; and
Whereas, a consistent sense of security and nurturing from parents and caregivers is a right that every child in New York State deserves to achieve the best quality of life possible, fulfilling the fundamental duty to provide for a child’s physical, psychological, and financial needs; and
Whereas, the New York State Child Support Program stands as an essential pillar of service, providing the resources for parents and guardians to contribute meaningfully to their children’s financial security, which encourages current and future success in school and adulthood; and
Whereas, the state recognizes that providing accessible and affordable child care is vital to empowering parents to enter and remain in the workforce, enabling parents to possess the economic means to consistently fulfill child support obligations; and
Whereas, in 2025, the Child Support Program collected and distributed $1.67 billion on behalf of approximately 597,000 cases, encouraging parents to develop healthy connections with their children while helping families throughout the state maintain financial stability and reducing child poverty; and
Whereas, the implementation of the Online Enrollment Tool has simplified access to care and expanded service efficiency and accessibility, offering more protection for survivors of domestic violence and family violence; and
Whereas, child support professionals across New York State display commendable commitment, respect, and empathy for parents, caregivers, and children and work tirelessly to provide outstanding customer service that protects, nurtures, and secures the next generation when they need it most;
Now, Therefore, I, Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim August 2026, as
Child Support Awareness Month
in the Empire State.
Given under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State
at the Capitol in the City of Albany this fourth day
of August in the year two thousand twenty-six.
Kathy Hochul, Governor
Secretary to the Governor
Karen Persichilli Keogh