Government Shutdown Forces Closure of 140 US Head Start Programs, Displacing 65,000 Children

The ongoing federal government shutdown is causing imminent closures of numerous Head Start programs across Ohio and Wisconsin, severely impacting thousands of low-income children and hundreds of staff members who rely on these federally funded early childhood education services. In Ohio, seven Head Start providers serving over 3,700 children and 940 staff face closure as federal funds are expected to run out by November 1, especially affecting rural areas with limited childcare alternatives. Wisconsin is also experiencing significant disruptions, with programs like the Sheboygan Human Rights Association and Southwestern Wisconsin Community Action Program planning to close classrooms, leaving over 275 children and 82 staff affected statewide. The closures come amid broader shutdown effects including furloughs of federal workers and suspension of programs like SNAP and WIC, which compounds hardships for families relying on multiple forms of assistance. Officials and advocacy groups are urging Congress to end the shutdown to protect the stability of families, preserve childcare access, and prevent further destabilization of vulnerable communities. The shutdown highlights the critical role Head Start plays in supporting working families by providing education, nutrition, healthcare screenings, and safe childcare environments essential for parental employment and community wellbeing.