Statement on FY25 Government Spending Bill

The National Head Start Association (NHSA) appreciates that Congress has helped stave off a government shutdown; however, level funding represents a cut to Head Start programs across the country.

The healthy development of children and their success in school and life is essential for the growth and sustainability of our society. It is critical for local programs like Head Start to have stability and continued support for the workforce in order to effectively assist children and their families.

We will work with Congress and the president on an FY26 budget to get the funding Head Start needs to ensure academic achievement and a bright future for children and families across the country. The social, economic, and cultural fabric of our nation depends on it.

About NHSA

The National Head Start Association (NHSA) is a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization dedicated to realizing the promise of Head Start; that all children have a chance to succeed in school and in life. NHSA is the voice for nearly 700,000 children served by more than 250,000 staff every single day in rural, urban, and suburban communities in all 50 states. In 2025, we celebrate 60 years of service to 40 million children, their families, and communities across the country. ••• Media Contact: Lauren Lawson-Zilai; Senior Director, Communications; media@nhsa.org

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