Parents scramble as shutdown threatens early learning programs for thousands of Washington Kids

SEATTLE — Thousands of local families are facing uncertainty as the federal government shutdown threatens to halt funding for Head Start programs across western Washington — programs that serve many of the region’s most vulnerable children.

At least 18 Head Start programs in King and Pierce counties — all overseen by the Puget Sound Educational Service District (PSESD) are on the brink of closing their doors. For families, educators, and children, it’s an emotional and economic crisis.

“Heartbreaking, right? Just heartbreaking that children and families are being impacted by a manufactured crisis,” said Lori Pittman with the Puget Sound Educational Service District.

These 18 Head Start programs under PSESD provide early learning opportunities to more than 1,200 mostly low-income famil