WASHINGTON (WV News) — The National Head Start Association is warning that the ongoing federal government shutdown could disrupt services for children and families across the country who rely on Head Start, the nation’s early learning and family support program for low-income communities.

Head Start programs in West Virginia serve thousands of children each year, providing early education, health screenings, nutritious meals and family support in some of the state’s most economically challenged areas. In many rural communities, Head Start is the only reliable early learning and child care option that allows parents to work or attend school.

Because of the timing of federal grants, six Head Start programs nationwide serving 6,525 children are already operating without federal funding, rel

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