Statement on Head Start Improvement Act of 2017

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to the introduction of Head Start Improvement Act of 2017 by Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03), the following statement should be attributed to Yasmina Vinci, executive director of the National Head Start Association: “Head Start has been an effective and strong program delivering an advantage to our nation’s children for more than 50 years. The current federal-to-local funding structure supports children’s long-term success by giving them access to services tailored locally in order to meet the community’s needs. While we disagree that Congressman Banks’ proposal would improve Head Start, we will work with him to ensure a bright future for Indiana’s, and our nation’s, most vulnerable children and their families.”

About NHSA

The National Head Start Association is a not-for-profit organization 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 800,000 children, 250,000 staff and 1,600 Head Start and Early Head Start grantees in the United States. ••• Media Contact: media@nhsa.org

In Recent News

Ongoing Issues Accessing Federal Grant Funds Continue to Impact Head Start Programs

Washington, D.C.–Ten days after the temporary federal payment freeze, dozens of Head Start programs are continuing to face challenges drawing down approved grant funds. Though the cause of the problem is unclear, this has a significant impact on Head Start which relies on steady, predictable access to operating funds in order to keep its doors…

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Nearly 20,000 Children and Families Impacted by Delay in Accessing Federal Funds

Washington, D.C.–Over the last week, a growing number of Head Start grant recipients have reported significant delays in accessing approved grant funding. While most recipients have not had major disruptions, a large number of recipients still continue to receive ‘pending’ or ‘in process’ messages when they request to draw down funds from their grant. As…

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Federal Grant Freeze Puts Head Start Children and Families at Risk Nationwide

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