CACF Responds to Governor Hochul’s 2026 State of the State Address
New York, NY (January 14, 2026) — In this most challenging time when our immigrant communities are under attack, CACF is heartened by the governor's commitment to protecting immigrant families, and for committing to not use state grants that would aid in the collaboration with federal immigration enforcement. We look forward to a future where she will support New York for All.
CACF applauds New York State’s investment in universal pre-K across the State, and the unveiling of New York City’s new program to ensure free childcare for two-year-olds. At a time when many Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) families are concerned about the future of food benefits, we are encouraged by the governor’s plans to uplift community food pantries, and to address SNAP skimming by securing EBT cards with chips.
Yet even with these commitments, we are disappointed in the lack of inclusion of our AAPI communities struggles and needs. Although often unrecognized and shrouded by the harmful myth of the model minority, AAPI New Yorkers have one of the highest rates of poverty at 23%, similar to that of Black and Latino New Yorkers. Despite the fact AAPI youth are at a disproportionate risk of suicide and suicide ideation, the specific need to address mental health issues amongst our AAPI youth was not included in the youth suicide prevention and mental health initiatives.
CACF looks forward to working with Governor Hochul to ensure that the needs of the diverse AAPI community across New York State are understood and met through her ambitious agenda. And as co-founders of the AAPI Equity Budget Coalition, CACF is calling on Governor Hochul and the New York State Legislature to fully include the $54.35 million AAPI Equity Budget in the FY27 New York State Budget.
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