Phyllis Montrose, Child Development Resource Director for Head Start, said, "We're still not sure exactly what's going to happen, because we are a November one grant. So as soon as our grant goes through that process, and then they release the funds, we know that we will be fully operational, but at this point, you know we're going to continue it with business as usual."

Kim Bruns, executive director of WO-CAP, said, “So we're really kind of looking at any and every option available to us, and so my plea would be, if any agency is in a position to assist us with some emergency funding, whether that be a no-interest loan or a grant or anything, just to help us kind of keep everything going and functioning as is current.”

The assistance applies to natural gas and electric utilities, bulk fuel, coal, or wood, with benefit limits for each type of heating. In addition, the program provides up to $1,500 for heating unit repair or replacement.

The West Ohio Community Action Partnership will suspend its Head Start and Early Head Start programs on November 3 due to the ongoing federal government shutdown and a lapse in funding.

Volunteers will work with Head Start students, reading and engaging with children from birth to 5 years old. Volunteers may also assist teachers with classroom activities. All volunteers will complete a standard background check and training. Time commitments are flexible and can range from a few hours a week to several days, depending on the volunteer’s availability.