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Governor Paterson Proclaims August Child Support Month
Puts Focus on Parental Responsibility for Child Well-Being
Governor David A. Paterson has issued a Proclamation declaring August as Child Support Month in New York State, recognizing how vital child support payments are, especially in these difficult economic times.
The State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA), the agency charged with administering the child support program marked the occasion with the announcement that the State has already collected more than $1 billion on behalf of children in New York State this year, 6 percent ahead of last year’s record collections.
“We are committed to ensuring the economic security of all New Yorkers, and child support is a key component of that,” said OTDA Commissioner David Hansell. “Especially in these tough economic times, New York State is redoubling its efforts to make sure every child has the financial support from both parents needed for a sound foundation in life.”
New York State’s child support program serves more than 939,000 children – approximately 22 percent of the state’s children under the age of 18. In 2007, the State collected a record $1.6 billion on behalf of these children and families, and in the first seven months of 2008, has already eclipsed $1 billion in collections.
“Child support is a vital source of income for hundreds of thousands of children and families in New York, and is often the key to keeping children from falling into poverty,” Commissioner Hansell said. “Studies have continually shown that children who receive financial and emotional support from both parents have a much brighter future than those who do not.”
Hansell said Child Support Month celebrates the value of the child support program to families and communities. During August, activities highlighting the program, its accomplishments and child support professionals are planned by OTDA’s Center for Child Well-Being. They include the release of several new publications and new public service campaign encouraging responsible parenting.