Proposed funding cuts could potentially cut Head Start

HANNAH COLLINS | The News

The Tri County Head Start is raising awareness about the potential impact to local Head Start centers due to funding cuts proposed in President Donald Trump’s latest budget proposal. Local administrators and parents are sounding the alarm, fearing the program could face deep reductions—or be eliminated entirely.

The Tri County Head Start serves 125 Head Start and 40 Early Head Start children across Washington, Holmes, and Walton counties. If funding were to be cut, these 165 children attending could potentially lose the services provided by Head Start. Health screenings (including medical, dental, vision, and hearing), support and enrollment services for children with disabilities, meals, wellness education, and the family engagement and parenting resources are all offered by Tri County Head Start in an effort to create stronger, more supportive home environments.

Kayla Graham, Family Services Coordinator for Tri County Head Start, emphasized the program’s significance in rural communities like Westville. “Having Head Start in our rural community has been life-changing for families,” said Graham. “We are an educational institution and strive to make children feel successful and loved.”

Graham warned that funding cuts would have consequences. “We are a low-income community. If they were to cut the funding for Head Start, about 165 children would lose a place where they receive food, love, and care—not including 54 employees who would lose their jobs.”

Tri County Head Start Director Kim Gillis highlighted the urgency of the issue, noting that five regional offices have already closed due to stalled funding. The National Head Start Association (NHSA) echoes theses concerns. “When funding stalls and doors close, our communities feel it,” NHSA said in a statement: “Head Start families are being left in limbo – and that’s not okay. Our children need us to raise our voices – now.”

The Tri County Head Start is encouraging community members to get involved by signing a petition, writing letters to Congress, and urging President Trump to reconsider the proposed cuts as there is still time before the budget is potentially passed through Congress. The organization also welcomes community partnerships and invites local residents to visit their classrooms to provide insight as to what they have to provide for children in the community.

Community members seeking to support the Head Start Program’s mission can sign the petition at nhsa.org.