Care
Ask about it
Tell us more about what you need. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.
Programs in New York
New York programs for this kind of help. Each agency decides who qualifies.
New York State Office of Children and Family Services
Child Care Assistance
Child care assistance helps eligible families pay for child care while they work or attend approved activities.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaperIn person
New York State Office for the Aging
Aging Services and NY Connects
Local aging agencies connect older adults and people with disabilities to meals, care, and community services.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance
Supplemental Security Income State Supplement Program
New York adds a state supplement to federal SSI payments for eligible residents.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaperIn person
New York State Education Department
Vocational Rehabilitation
ACCES-VR helps eligible people with disabilities prepare for, get, or keep a job.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaperIn person
New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities
Developmental Disabilities Services
OPWDD coordinates supports and services for eligible people with developmental disabilities.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal programs
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Head Start and Early Head Start
Free preschool, child care and family support for young children from birth to age 5 in families with low income, run by local programs.
Find a program near you with the Head Start locator and contact it to apply.
Checked on October 9, 2026
Talk to a person
- 211 New York
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988