Emergency Federal Funding for Head Start Programs in Flint, MI

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Department of Health and Human Services announced $3.6 million in emergency  funding for Head Start and Early Head Start programs serving children and families affected by the water crisis in Flint, MI. The following statement should be attributed to National Head Start Association Executive Director Yasmina Vinci. 

It is encouraging that the Administration is responding to calls by the community to recognize Head Start and Early Head Start as the necessary intervention they need for their youngest children affected by the water contamination in Flint. Community leaders and federal policymakers alike have identified Head Start as a key partner in developing a forward-looking plan to combat the devastating consequences of the lead exposure and maximize Kindergarten preparedness for Flint’s youngest, most vulnerable children.

Head Start’s unique model that addresses the whole child – from health to nutrition, education to critical work with the families – is the best intervention for Flint children. This emergency funding is an important first investment in the infrastructure that will ensure that the children and families affected by the lead contamination get the solution-oriented and mitigating services they will need moving forward.

About NHSA

The National Head Start Association is committed to the belief that every child, regardless of circumstances at birth, has the ability to succeed in school and in life. The opportunities offered by Head Start lead to healthier, empowered children and families, and stronger, more vibrant communities. NHSA is the voice for more than 840,000 children and families from systemically underserved populations, 250,000 staff, and 1,600 Head Start grant recipients. ••• Media Contact: Emily Wagner, Director of Communications, media@nhsa.org

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