On April 11, 2025, a proposal to eliminate Head Start contained in the Department of Health and Human Services 2026 Discretionary Budget Passback was leaked to press. While labeled “pre-decisional,” the document succinctly said, “The Budget does not fund Head Start.”
In response, Head Start families and alumni across the country sprang into action. Residents from every state, U.S. territory, and 250 American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes and Nations signed a letter to the President — demonstrating not only strong support for Head Start, but also deep concern about the consequences of its potential elimination.
In total, 52,000 alumni and parents signed the letter by adding their names, urging the President to support and strengthen Head Start, emphasizing the vital role it has played in their lives, and spelling out what would be lost if the program were to be eliminated.
This letter is more than a response to a headline. It reflects the deep and lasting impact Head Start has had across generations.
Related Resources
National Partner Advocacy Sign-On Letter
Join organizations, businesses, and community leaders across the country in urging Congress to stand with and strengthen…
Project (Stand for) Head Start – A Summer Program of Action
In 1965, we launched a summer program. Sixty years later, it’s time we spark a summer of…
Take Action for Head Start
Take Action for Head Start: Congress needs to hold the line for Head Start as it works toward finalizing appropriations for Fiscal Year 2025.
Head Start Alumni Network
Head Start Alumni sustain Head Start’s legacy for children and families through national advocacy, local support, and meaningful connections. If you or your child attended Head Start, please join the alumni network.