Mamdani strengthens New York social programs for undocumented immigrants, including access to free childcare.

• New York Keeps Social Programs Open to Immigrants
• Free Childcare Does Not Require Immigration Status
• Mayor Reaffirms Sanctuary City Policies

New York City reaffirmed its stance as a sanctuary city. Mayor Zohran Mamdani said that municipal social programs are open to all families, regardless of immigration status.

During a roundtable discussion, the mayor promoted the city’s free childcare program. The event took place ahead of the deadline for preschool and early childhood enrollment.

Mamdani Will Maintain Social Programs for Immigrants in New York

Mamdani stressed that the city is proud of its immigrant identity. “We are proud that New York is a city of immigrants,” he said, according to Newsweek.

The deadline to apply for these programs is February 27. The goal is to ensure that more families are aware of and able to access the available benefits.

The mayor was clear that immigration status is not reviewed. “These programs will not ask about the immigration status of any child,” he stated.

🔴 | The mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani, confirms that undocumented immigrants will qualify for universal childcare. pic.twitter.com/LYv1vJA9Kj

— Alerta Mundial (@AlertaMundoNews) January 23, 2026

Mamdani added that his administration will use all available legal tools to protect the health and safety of those who enroll.

He explained that this policy is not new and that similar measures have been in place for years.

According to the mayor, the intention is for families—especially those who fear interacting with public institutions—to feel safe.

Clear Limits on ICE Access

The mayor reminded the public that Immigration and Customs Enforcement does not have unrestricted access to municipal spaces. Schools, hospitals, and city-owned properties are protected by local policies.

“We deny ICE access without a judicial warrant,” Mamdani reiterated. The same rule applies to properties operated by city contractors.

Mamdani emphasized that these rules remain in effect across all five boroughs. Only a warrant signed by a judge allows federal agents to enter.

These statements were made on the same day as large-scale protests. Thousands of people took to the streets to demonstrate against ICE operations.

How to Access Free Childcare in New York

Families with children ages 3 and 4 can apply for the program. The process is completed through the official portal myschools.nyc.

Phone assistance is also available. The city has provided the number 718-935-2009 for families who need help.

🇺🇸‼️ | The Muslim communist mayor of New York, Zohran Mamdani, announced that he will use state funds to include all undocumented immigrants in the city’s social assistance programs, without verifying immigration status… pic.twitter.com/McxlCHJzdQ

— UHN Plus (@UHN_Plus) January 24, 2026

Additionally, the city operates 13 Family Welcome Centers. These centers provide in-person guidance in multiple languages.

Applications are not processed on a first-come, first-served basis. This allows families to apply without immediate pressure.

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Program Expansion and Political Context

Earlier this month, Mamdani announced a new partnership. He did so alongside Kathy Hochul, the governor of New York.

Together, they said they will work to offer free childcare to 2-year-olds. The plan aims to expand the existing 3-K program.

The long-term goal is universal childcare coverage. This would support more working families across the city.

Amid heightened immigration tensions, the mayor’ s message was clear. New York will maintain access to basic services for all residents.

Local authorities say they want to reduce fear within immigrant communities. They aim to ensure that social programs remain tools of support, not exclusion.