Nadia Galindo
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Jun 2, 2026, 10:20 PM
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Updated
Parents in four communities across New York City can begin applying on Tuesday for the city’s new free 2‑K program, which launches this September.
The rollout will provide free, full-day care for 2,000 2-year-olds this fall.
Most participating programs will operate for a full workday to support families with full‑time jobs.
Families in School District 10 in the Bronx, which includes Norwood, Belmont and Fordham, are eligible to apply for 2K seats.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Gov. Kathy Hochul marked the start of the application period at an event on Tuesday, noting the city’s goal of ensuring families are aware of the new option.
Universal 2-K was one of the mayor’s campaign promises.
Just eight days into his term, he and the governor announced the state was investing $1.2 billion in child care.
While the city plans to expand the program over the next few years, officials say they are starting in communities with some of the greatest childcare needs.
"Some of the places that we're so excited to introduce free childcare for two-year-olds to are the very places that are often last on the list," said Mamdani. "We want parents to know those days are over."
The application window opens June 2 and closes Friday, June 26.
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