Together for Head Start

Current Threats to Head Start

Head Start has endured months of disruption—from a leaked memo suggesting its elimination to delayed funding, stalled approvals, and regional office closures. The Administration’s FY 2026 budget, released May 30, proposes flat funding for Head Start. But with inflation and rising costs, “level funding” means cuts—fewer resources, fewer services.

Without increased support, Head Start programs would be forced to cut enrollment, reduce hours or lay off staff.

The national impact of flat funding would be severe:

• Fewer children will have access to quality early learning and care
• Parents may be forced to leave the workforce due to limited choices for affordable child care
• Recruiting and retaining qualified early childhood educators will become even harder
• Vulnerable families could lose access to essential health, nutrition and well-being services

Join the Movement

In collaboration with a broad coalition of national and regional allies, Start Early launched Together for Head Start—a nationwide campaign to build support among early childhood professionals, families, and advocates. The campaign highlights the urgent threats facing Head Start and mobilizes communities and policymakers to protect and sustain the program.

To support Head Start programs and professionals on the front lines, our team is actively:

• Hosting office hours for state and regional Head Start associations and grantees
• Developing advocacy tools and messaging
• Providing technical assistance tailored to local needs

Everyone knows that Head Start is a powerful and effective investment for children, families and communities. It’s up to all of us to ensure our elected officials remember that. #TogetherforHeadStart

Proven Results

• Every $1 invested in Head Start yields up to $9 in long-term benefits, including: higher graduation rates, improved health outcomes and increased lifetime earnings
• Head Start supports workforce development and is a major employer in many states
• Amongst voters, there is strong support for Head Start across the political spectrum

Our Head Start Programs

Since 1985, Start Early has provided Early Head Start and Head Start programs for young children, their families and pregnant women across Illinois. Today, Start Early serves nearly 2,000 families with quality and safe early learning programs and prenatal services.