SAVANNAH, Ga. – As the federal shutdown continues, state-funded programs are bracing for temporary closures slated for November 1. This situation poses a significant challenge for families relying on these critical services.

Approximately 600 families might lose access to Head Start programs offered by Action Pact, as the nonprofit is set to shut down 15 of its centers across 12 counties. This decision was announced in a recent press release from the organization.

The closures threaten to leave hundreds of children without essential early education, daily meals, and health services, all of which are crucial while their parents are at work. These Head Start programs have been vital in providing educational and nutritional support, as well as health and mental health resources.

Compounding the issue, families are also grappling with suspended SNAP benefits and other critical assistance programs during this shutdown.

“We deeply regret the disruption this closure will cause to the nearly 600 families we serve,” an Action Pact spokesperson stated in a press release. “We are committed to reopening these programs as soon as funding becomes available. We urge everyone to reach out to their elected officials and advocate for the reopening of the federal government.”

Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Students (GEEARS) and Quality Care for Children (QCC) are trying to help find alternate care and funding over the next weeks. QCC is hoping to quickly raise funds from its donor network to help these families afford the cost of care through its BOOST Emergency Child Care Scholarship Program until their Head Start programs can reopen once federal funds are restored.