Northwest Ohio families fear federal funding cuts for Head Start programs

DEFIANCE, Ohio — Families and early childhood educators in northwest Ohio are voicing concern over a federal proposal that could eliminate all funding for the Head Start program, a critical resource offering free early education and support services to low-income families.

The Head Start Program in Defiance currently serves 100 families, providing essential care and education to children ages 0 to 5. With the White House expected to propose the removal of Head Start funding in its 2026 budget request, parents and program leaders say the potential cuts could devastate families across rural Ohio.

“For many of us, this program is a blessing,” said Rebecca Thieme, a parent whose three children have gone through Head Start in Defiance. “If this program wasn’t here, financially and emotionally, a lot of us wouldn’t know what to do.”

Thieme said her son has made significant progress since enrolling. “They have helped him grow so much,” she said.

The Head Start program offers not just early childhood education, but also meals, housing assistance and family support, services that are especially critical in rural areas where alternatives are limited.

Amber Simmons, director of child development for the Northwest Ohio Community Action Commission, emphasized the broader impact on working families.

“Eliminating this free program would have a huge impact on employment rates,” Simmons said. “Parents rely on Head Start to be able to work or attend school. Without it, I don’t know what they’d do.”

The commission’s Head Start initiative serves approximately 350 children across Defiance, Fulton, Henry, Paulding and Williams counties.

Jamie Huber, the commission’s director of community services, said that in rural communities like Defiance, Head Start is often the only accessible option for early childhood support.

“These programs are a safety net,” Huber said. “We need this funding. Eliminating the funding doesn’t eliminate the need.”

Parents like Thieme remain hopeful that lawmakers will reconsider.

“It’s amazing, it’s a blessing and a lot of us wouldn’t know what to do without it,” she said.