Head Start is a vital support system for Oregon’s lowest-income families and most vulnerable children. Across the state, programs help thousands of young children build the cognitive, social, and emotional skills they need to succeed in school and in life. Head Start also provides medical and dental screenings, nutritious meals, and parent education—strengthening families well beyond the classroom.
As legislators work through state budget decisions, this is a critical moment to underscore why Head Start matters—and why these services must continue reaching children and families across Oregon.
Lawmakers are reviewing the state budget now. Your voice can help ensure Head Start continues serving families across Oregon.
Contact your legislator and ask them to support continued, stable state funding for Head Start.
Your message can help:
- Keep classrooms open
- Retain teachers and staff
- Stabilize local programs
- Ensure children and families continue receiving vital services
Head Start is more than early education — it is a foundation for healthy families and strong communities across Oregon!
Here's a written script you can copy:
Dear Legislator,
I am writing as a parent and Oregon community member to ask for for your leadership in maintaining stable state funding for Oregon’s Head Start programs.
Head Start is a vital support system for Oregon’s lowest-income families, providing early learning, health screenings, nutritious meals, and family support that strengthen children and families well beyond the classroom. Programs are already navigating federal funding delays and rising operating costs, making it increasingly difficult to maintain services and keep classrooms open. Additional reductions in state funding would further strain programs and could mean fewer children served or classroom closures.
While long-term solutions are being pursued, stable state funding remains essential to sustaining these services and supporting the families who rely on them.
I respectfully urge you to protect and maintain stable funding for Oregon Head Start programs.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[City you live in]
Thank you for taking action to protect Oregon’s critical Head Start programs. Please encourage your family and friends to do the same!
