NHSA Statement on Level Funding for Head Start in President’s FY2026 Budget

Alexandria, VA  — The National Head Start Association (NHSA) issued the following statement in response to the release of the president’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget request, which proposes level funding for Head Start and Early Head Start:

“While we appreciate the administration’s continued recognition of the critical role Head Start plays in being a launchpad to the success for hundreds of thousands of children and families across America, level funding in today’s economic climate would constrain a program that consistently delivers long-term results for children, communities, and the country for the last 60 years. 

Head Start programs are facing significant pressures: rising costs, workforce shortages, and increasing demand for comprehensive early childhood services. Maintaining funding for a third consecutive year — without accounting for inflation, workforce competition, or increased needs — is effectively a deep cut. It means programs will be forced to make impossible choices, including reducing enrollment, cutting hours, or laying off staff.

Every dollar invested in Head Start returns seven to nine dollars every year back to the community through small businesses, jobs, and reduced government dependence. When resources don’t keep pace with growing needs, it becomes harder for children to access important services, families to plan for the future, and communities to reach their full potential.

The Head Start community calls on Congress to make the wise decision to adequately fund Head Start. The children deserve more than the status quo — they deserve a bold commitment to their futures.”

— Yasmina Vinci, Executive Director, National Head Start Association

For 60 years, Head Start has been a bipartisan success story, supporting millions of children and families with high-quality early learning, health, nutrition, and family services. More than 40 million children have benefited from Head Start. That’s good for all of us – because strong families and strong communities power our nation.

NHSA stands ready to work with all members of Congress to ensure that every child, regardless of zip code or circumstance, has the opportunity to succeed.