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ALBANY — Low-income families with newborns are now eligible for a one-time payment of $1,800 under a new state program aimed at improving infant health and reducing childhood poverty.

The $8.5 million Birth Allowance for Beginning Year, or BABY Benefit, is intended to provide under-resourced families with assistance in paying for essentials like diapers and clothing, while defraying the costs of birth-related expenses. The program was approved as part of the state's budget adopted in May. Tribune

Gov. Hochul orders closure of another NY State prison, drawing criticism

Graham Rayman, New York Daily N

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