Child care has become one of the biggest expenses facing working families in Rockland. Between housing, groceries, utilities, transportation and all the other costs of raising children, many parents are under enormous financial pressure. Even families that work hard and make every effort to manage their expenses often struggle to afford quality child care.

That is why the nearly 70% increase in Rockland County’s child care assistance allocation is such welcome news. For eligible families, this additional funding can provide meaningful relief, help parents remain in the workforce and offer some much-needed breathing room.

I want to especially thank Senate candidate Joe Rand for bringing attention to Rockland County’s child care funding needs and working with Assemblyman Aharon Benzion Wieder and Governor Kathy Hochul to push for a fairer allocation for our community. By highlighting the funding disparities and making sure Rockland’s needs were part of the conversation, Joe Rand helped bring attention to an issue that affects countless local families. It is encouraging to see community concerns translated into meaningful progress.

As Rockland County continues to grow, the demand for child care assistance continues to rise. In fact, the available funding has already been fully allocated, reflecting just how many local families depend on this vital support. While this nearly 70% increase is an important step forward, we must continue pushing to ensure Rockland receives the resources necessary to keep pace with our growing community and the families who need this assistance.

This is an important step forward, but it should be the beginning, not the end. Rockland families need continued advocacy and stronger representation in Albany. That is why we need more people like Joe Rand in the State Senate majority—leaders who understand the challenges facing our community, make our needs a priority and know how to work with others to secure resources and deliver results.

As a grateful parent, I want to thank Joe Rand for helping bring this issue forward, Assemblyman Wieder for his advocacy and Governor Hochul for supporting additional resources. When leaders work together to address the real concerns of local families, our entire community benefits.

For families like mine, this is not simply a percentage in a state budget. It is about the possibility of less financial pressure and greater stability for parents doing their best to raise their children. We should recognize the progress that has been made while continuing to push for more. Rockland families deserve a strong voice in Albany, and I hope Joe Rand will continue this work in the State Senate and help bring even more resources and progress to our community.

Sincerely,

Aron E

A Grateful Rockland County Parent