Government Shutdown Threatens Pace Head Start Program

KNOX COUNTY, Ind. (We Are Knox County) -The federal government shutdown could soon impact hundreds of local children and families.

Pace Community Action Agency says its Head Start program, which serves 263 children and families in Knox County as well as Daviess, Greene, and Sullivan counties, may lose federal funding on November 1 if the shutdown continues.

After that date, the program will operate without federal funding due to delays in grant approvals caused by the shutdown.

The grant supports classroom operations, staff pay, meals, and health services for local children and families.

Without that funding, the agency says it may be forced to reduce services, close classrooms temporarily, or rely on local donations to stay open.

"We are doing everything we can to keep our classrooms open because our families depend on us," said Tai Blythe, CEO of Pace Community Action Agency said in a statement.

"Parents need to work and go to school knowing their children are safe, learning, and cared for, but we can’t sustain this without federal support."

Head Start provides free early education, meals, and health screenings for local children from low-income families.

It also employs about 80 staff members who could be affected if funding stops.

Head Start Director Angie Lange says the agency is working to keep classrooms open and is welcoming community support.

"We’re accepting donations to help us continue providing valuable early childhood education to children birth through age five," Lange said.

"Any amount donated is appreciated."

Those who want to help can donate online at pacecaa.org or send checks to: Pace CAA, 525 N. 4th St., Vincennes, IN 47591.