Head Start programs in Georgia at risk of closing if government does not reopen soon

ATLANTA — Head Start programs in the Peach State and across the country are at risk of closing if the government shutdown continues into next month.

According to an article from the Associated Press, the early education initiative is funded almost entirely by the federal governmen t, making it particularly vulnerable to funding disruptions. The program provides free preschool education, health screenings, and nutritious meals to low-income families. The programs — which are run by schools, local governments, and nonprofits — receive new grants annually and are not allowed to carry over unspent money, according to an article from the Associated Press.

Providers are warning that without action from Congress, dozens of programs could be forced to close as soon as Nov. 3. This means more t