As the federal government remains shut down, Kansas City families face a looming crisis: 17 Head Start sites may be forced to shut down starting November 1, jeopardizing the care, education, and livelihoods of 2,300 children and families.
The Mid‑America Regional Council (MARC) oversees Head Start in Clay, Platte, and Jackson counties, supporting more than 400 early educators and 17 partner sites.
However, because federal funding and grant awards tied to that program are delayed, MARC cannot legally spend on Head Start operations beyond the end of its current grant on October 31, unless assured of reimbursement…