At this point, we're not closing down by any means. What we have to do is look for ways to be more fiscally sound, find ways to continue having quality programs without operating in the red. |
Obviously we're very excited and anxious, because it would certainly make a difference for this program. |
That was a significant event there, because prior to two years ago, Pennsylvania was one of 13 other states that had no funds available for these programs. Through the HSSAP, we're able to apply to the state to help offset what the federal government can't give us. |
The general response is, instead of programs like ours, [the government] needs these extra funds for the national defense fund. And this isn't me talking. I've read literature from the national Head Start association [and others] ... publications that suggest with all certainty that that's where funds are going. |
There's no surplus ever. We're not going to do anything to deter our current services, but we cannot afford to acquire additional anything -- it's down to the bone. |
These are the kinds of things we need to do to keep this thing rolling. If we can pull our resources, we can service more kids and keep ourselves out of the red. |
Through our assessments there are over 1,200 children who would be eligible for the Head Start program, determined by age and income level. We're currently serving 439 of them. |
We can provide Head Start educational services in the daycare center and we would share the costs. It also means that the parent that's working - for people who have no place to put their kids -- the child is not only getting daycare, they're getting other Head Start services [like] health, nutrition and education. |