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PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Ashley Chen, Policy Analyst at Chinese American Planning Council
6:01:02
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87 sec
Ashley Chen, representing the Chinese American Planning Council, testified on the importance of community-based educational and youth development programs. She expressed support for the FY 2026 executive budget allocations for after-school programs, childcare access, and youth employment initiatives.
- Highlighted CPC's success in serving 80,000 AAPI low-income and immigrant New Yorkers annually
- Emphasized the critical role of after-school and youth development programs in empowering students beyond academic support
- Urged for continued investment in programs supporting young people, children, and working families in the final adopted budget
Ashley Chen
6:01:02
Thank you, chairs Brannen, Stevens, and members of the children, youth, and finance committees for the opportunity to testify today.
6:01:08
My name is Ashley Chen, and I'm the policy analyst at the Chinese American Planning Council, CBC.
6:01:13
We serve 80,000 AAPI low income and immigrant New Yorkers across the city every year.
6:01:19
Last year, 1,003 students participated in our educational programs, and every single high school senior graduated.
6:01:26
This isn't just a number.
6:01:27
It's proof of what community based programs can accomplish.
6:01:30
For low income and first generation students, these programs are more than about academic support.
6:01:35
They're a critical bridge to personal growth, opportunity, and economic mobility.
6:01:39
We're encouraged to see the fiscal year twenty six executive budget allocate $331,000,000 to support 20,000 new, after school student enrollees over the next three years along with $25,000,000 for promise NYC which would expand access to childcare for low income families who are otherwise ineligible.
6:01:56
We're also pleased to see baseline funding for SYEP and $11,000,000 dedicated to SYEP metro cards.
6:02:03
After school and youth development programs do more than extend the school day.
6:02:06
They empower students with the skills, confidence, and networks needed to thrive not just in the classroom, but in their careers and communities.
6:02:13
These programs help young people see themselves as future leaders and change makers.
6:02:17
We are urging that the final adopted budget continues to center young people, children, and working families in the process and ensure meaningful investments into the future of our young New Yorkers and ultimately the city.
6:02:28
Thank you for your time.