Philanthropists pledge $10 million to restore 7,000 Head Start seats

POLITICO

The money will allow programs that have recently closed to reopen. | AP Photo

By CAITLIN EMMA | 10/7/13 4:30 PM EDT Updated: 10/7/13 6:53 PM EDT

Head Start programs across the country closed because of the government shutdown will reopen Tuesday thanks to a $10 million contribution from a pair of Texas philanthropists.
The National Head Start Association said Monday the founders of the Laura and John Arnold Foundation came forward after learning about the shutdown’s effects on the federal pre-K program for children from low-income families. The money is a personal donation, however, not through the foundation, NHSA spokeswoman Sally Aman said.

At least 7,195 children lost access to their Head Start programs since the government shutdown began a week ago. One in South Carolina closed Monday.

The money will allow recently closed programs like Jonathan Bines’ in Prentiss, Miss., to reopen and programs that were facing possible closure to stay open. Bines program serves 900 children. He said he has made calls to all of the families and also plans to send letters this week. Parents told him they are thrilled, with many heaving a grateful sigh of relief and saying, “Thank you.”

Read More here

Related articles

• Private donors offer $10 million to reopen Head Start programs in six states
• Couple donates $10 million, Keeps Head Start Open During Government Shutdown
• Couple donates $10 million, keeps Head Start open during government shutdown
• Billionaire couple donates $10 million to Head Start programs closed by U.S. government shutdown
• Philanthropy's Response to the Government Shutdown
• Couple donates $10 million Head Start programs closed by shutdown
• Billionaire couple donates $10 million to Head Start programs closed by U.S. government shutdown
• Donors pledge up to $10 million to fund Head Start