Statement from the National Head Start Association on White House Budget Recommendations

The below statement is from Yasmina Vinci, executive director for the National Head Start Association.

Washington, D.C. — The Trump Administration’s partial budget proposal, which was released today, outlines what it wants Congress to fund and cut in fiscal year 2026 (FY26). While Head Start is grateful that it was not explicitly eliminated in this skinny budget proposal, we are concerned about the significant cuts that threaten access to health services, education, and support for hundreds of thousands of families.

The proposed deep cuts to non-defense discretionary programs — many of which Head Start families depend on — pose a serious threat to the strength and stability of these essential services. These cuts not only jeopardize critical supports for young children and their families but also complicate efforts in Congress to reach a responsible funding agreement for FY26.

Until a funding bill is passed by Congress and signed by the president, we call on our community — and all who value the vital role of Head Start — to keep urging lawmakers to prioritize these programs in the appropriations process. We will continue our efforts until there is clear assurance that Head Start and its related services are fully protected in FY26 and beyond.

CONTACT:
Lauren Lawson-Zilai
media@nhsa.org