Challenges remain for Head Start

Federal shutdown ends—but supporting Head Start’s operations remains a priority

Although the shutdown has ended and federal funds are about to flow again—at least temporarily—many Head Start programs are still recovering from weeks of uncertainty that strained staffing and disrupted operations for families who rely on these services the most. Given that the short-term funding bill only keeps the government operational until January 30, now is the time to urge Congressional lawmakers to work toward agreements that will not only keep federal programs open throughout the coming year, but increase funding for Head Start.

Head Start serves 700,000 children nationally and has the capacity to serve more than 5,000 in Nebraska. Head Start programs:

1. Offer comprehensive nutritional, medical and developmental supports for children in 56 of Nebraska’s 93 counties.
2. Promote families’ economic self-sufficiency, helping them find a pathway to independence and success.
3. Employ more than 2,100 staff including teachers, home visitors, disabilities coordinators and other professionals working together to support children’s healthy development.

Although Head Start avoided being cut entirely from the federal budget earlier this year, it is currently targeted for flat funding in 2026. No funding increases for Head Start means the program will struggle to keep up with the rapidly rising costs of delivering its services in the coming year, jeopardizing its reach and accessibility.

Get involved by urging Nebraska’s federal delegation to increase support for Head Start. Use the contact information on this page to call or write to our state delegates today.