Summary
Starting November 1, over 65,000 children may lose access to the Head Start program due to a government shutdown. Head Start provides early education and support to low-income families but cannot operate without federal funding. Several local programs risk closing if the shutdown continues.
Key Facts
- More than 65,000 children could lose Head Start services starting November 1 if the government remains shut down.
- Head Start is a federal program that supports low-income families with early education, meals, health screenings, and family support.
- 134 local Head Start programs, along with others whose funding lapsed on October 1, may close soon without federal funds.
- Florida, Georgia, Missouri, and Ohio are among the most affected states.
- Head Start currently serves about 750,000 infants and young children across the U.S.
- Programs receive funding at different times, with some scheduled for October 1 and others for November 1.
- If the shutdown lasts into December, more programs will face funding issues.
- Some centers, like those in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, have plans to stay open until mid-November by using reserve funds.
