EXAS (April 25, 2025) – Texas has lost nearly 75,000 child care seats since last year, a loss that continues to strain working families and the child care workforce, according to CHILDREN AT RISK (C@R). As federal lawmakers weigh reductions to key programs that support children and families, the Department of Health and Human Services’ FY26 initial budget proposal completely eliminates funding for Head Start, one of the nation’s most effective child care programs.

On Monday, April 28, at 10:30 AM, national and statewide leaders convened for a virtual press conference to call for the continued investment in Head Start—a trusted, research-backed program that promotes school readiness, economic stability, and opportunity for families. In Texas alone, more than 65,000 children and over 50,000 working parents rely on Head Start and Early Head Start to help bridge critical gaps in child care availability. These programs are delivered through more than 1,200 locations, employing 19,000 early childhood educators and staff across the state.

In 2023, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Texas Association of Business, and Early Matters estimated that Texas lost $9.39 billion in economic activity due to a lack of accessible child care. Currently, federal dollars make up the majority of Texas’ early childhood investment, with the state contributing only the minimum required child care match. The proposed elimination of Head Start funding would further destabilize an already fragile system—with far-reaching economic and social consequences for Texas communities.

“The data is clear on this. Throughout its history, Head Start is one of the single best ways for children and families to break the cycle of poverty,” said Dr. Bob Sanborn, president and CEO, CHILDREN AT RISK.

Beyond its economic significance, decades of research show that children who attend Head Start are more likely to graduate from high school, attend college, and live healthier, more socially integrated lives. The program also plays a vital role in supporting families experiencing homelessness, military-connected households, and children with disabilities—populations that will be among the most impacted if funding is cut.

Specific to Texas, Head Start and Early Head Start:

• Serve nearly 1,400 families with ties to the military
• Support more than 3,600 families experiencing homelessness
• Create positive intergenerational outcomes, including a 12% decrease in likelihood of adult poverty and a 29% reduction in reliance on public assistance

FEATURING

Kim Kofron, Senior Director of Educaiton, CHILDREN AT RISK

Dr. Deborah Bergeron, Deputy Director, National Head Start Association

Dr. Mariano Herrera, Acting Executive Director, Child Inc.

Kriston Jackson-Jones, Vice President of Early Childhood Programs, Child Care Group

Henry Jones, Managing Partner, Texas Head Start Association