Congress must protect and prioritize Head Start funding for the hundreds of thousands of children across the country and families in every congressional district that depend on it. Eliminating it would have devastating consequences for your constituents and community. Head Start gives young children a strong start through safe, nurturing early learning environments, healthy meals, and family services. And more than one million parents depend on Head Start so they can go to work, support their families, and build better futures. Without it, many would be forced to choose between their job and their child’s care — a choice no one should have to make.
Decades of research shows that participation in Head Start has both short- and long-term positive effects for participating children, families, and the communities around them. For many young children, it’s their first time in a supportive classroom. For parents and families, it’s a pathway to long-term stability and opportunity.
As Congress considers the proposed budget, the stakes for Head Start could not be higher. Without strong federal investment, children may fall behind before they even enter kindergarten. Parents could lose access to reliable child care. And rural areas — where Head Start is often the only option — would be hit especially hard.
Head Start empowers families, supports communities, and strengthens local economies. I urge you to stand up for this essential program and reject any attempts to weaken or eliminate it.