The Trump administration plans to cut federal funding for the Head Start program. This will have a drastic impact on Eastern Oregon University Head Start. This high-quality program promotes healthy development during the critical first five years of life and has lasting effects into later childhood and beyond. It serves about 300 children and their families in Union and Baker counties each year.

With these cuts, 65 children won’t be able to attend Head Start, and their families will lose the vital services and resources that Head Start provides, including health and mental health, nutrition and family support, as well as leadership and skill-building for parents. The community at large will not escape these impacts. Specifically, four classrooms will close and 32 full- and part-time living wage jobs will be eliminated.

This plan threatens the established system of early childhood care that is essential to family well-being and community stability in Eastern Oregon. Head Start funds are the framework that holds together a broader constellation of state and local services and funding streams. Without it, the entire structure is at risk.

Support — don’t cut — Head Start! Visit nhsa.org to take action.

Connie Sherrard
La Grande