A proposed federal budget by President Donald Trump’s administration could eliminate funding for Head Start, a national child care and preschool program that serves low-income families. According to a report by USA Today, an official familiar with the plan said that both Head Start and Early Head Start programs are targeted for defunding in a preliminary draft of the budget.
In Colorado, this cut would have serious consequences. More than 11,000 children could lose access to early education and family services. Each year, the state receives nearly $120 million in federal funds for the program. These funds go directly to local providers who deliver services to families.
“This isn’t about politics. It’s about kids,” said Heather Frenz, executive director of the Colorado Head Start Association. “Colorado’s families need Head Start now more than ever. Eliminating this program would be a devastating blow — and it’s simply unacceptable.”
Head Start was created in 1965 under President Lyndon B. Johnson as part of his “War on Poverty.” It was designed to help prepare young children from low-income families for school. The program serves children from birth to age five. It also supports families through job assistance and educational opportunities.
Children who are homeless, in foster care, or have disabilities automatically qualify for Head Start. Nationally, the program helps over 1 million parents go to work, according to advocacy groups.
If the funding is cut, around 800,000 children across the country would also lose access to free meals, developmental screenings, and basic health care services offered through Head Start.
Research has shown that Head Start has long-term benefits. Children who attend are more likely to finish high school, less likely to repeat a grade, and less likely to get involved in the criminal justice system. Experts say it is one of the most effective tools to fight intergenerational poverty.
The proposed cuts have raised alarm among education and child welfare advocates, especially in states like Colorado where many families rely heavily on the program.
