The family of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has announced a $100 million donation for early childhood education and free childcare initiatives in New York, aimed at supporting the city’s expanding universal childcare programme.

The donation was confirmed by the charity organisation Robin Hood, which said the funds will be used to establish the “Jackie Bezos Endowment for Early Childhood”, focusing on early education and child development projects.

An additional $25 million in matching funds has also been pledged, contingent on equal contributions from other donors, which could bring the total fund to $150 million.

Jackie Bezos, Jeff Bezos’ mother, has previously served on the board of Robin Hood.

The contribution comes as New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani promotes a citywide “2-K Programme” to provide free, year-round early childhood education and care for children aged two and above.

While the initiative has gained attention for its expansion plans, Mamdani has also been openly critical of wealthy elites and recently proposed a tax on luxury second homes, sparking political debate.

He did not attend this year’s Met Gala, instead focusing on affordability and public services in the city.

A City Hall spokesperson said government, charities, families and the private sector would need to work together to deliver universal childcare.

Robin Hood, founded in 1988 by hedge fund investor Paul Tudor Jones, has backed more than 300 charities across New York’s five boroughs. Its leadership said public funding remains essential, with philanthropy acting as a complement to government programmes.

The donation comes as New York faces a projected $12 billion budget deficit, though city officials say planned funding for childcare initiatives will help support long-term goals.