FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 29, 2023
Contact: Shubhra Mishra
communications@khcc-nyc.org
Kingsbridge Heights Community Center Responds to Unforeseen Suspension of Federal Grant for Early Head Start Program
Bronx, New York: On Thursday, September 28, 2023, Kingsbridge Heights Community Center was notified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), and Office of Head Start (OHS) that the federal grant that supports Early Head Start daycare providers and provides daycare subsidies for 121 needy families was suspended without notice effective immediately starting Thursday, September 28th, 2023, 5:00 PM ET.
As a direct consequence of this suspension, we are faced with the unfortunate necessity of pausing all Early Head Start (EHS) programming in the Family Child Care (FCC) and Baby School until further notice. KHCC is, therefore, referring FCC EHS families and Baby School participants to other providers and programs. In addition, KHCC must also, unfortunately, furlough and/or reassign staff who are supported by Head Start funds.
KHCC strongly disagrees with the decision and expresses profound concern for the well-being of the children, families, and providers who have relied on these critical funds and support services. In response to this suspension, KHCC fully intends to challenge this decision and earnestly hopes for the reinstatement of the Early Head Start program without delay. Our foremost concern is ensuring that families can promptly access the daycares, along with the associated services and support, which are essential for their livelihoods.
KHCC remains dedicated to its mission of providing vital services to the community and stands resolute in its efforts to rectify this situation, ensuring that the most vulnerable among us are not left without the support they require.