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STATE OF PLAY: Federal Shutdown and Child Care/Early Learning Programs
UPDATE: 11/18/25 In the aftermath of the shutdown, Head Start programs around the nation are continuing to re-open, some more quickly than others. See the latest on the FFYF Shutdown …
Shutdown 2025: Impact On Head Start Programs
UPDATE: 11/18/25 Head Start programs around the nation are continuing to re-open, some more quickly than others. As of today, Head Start sites in 13 states plus Puerto Rico are …
STATEMENT: FFYF on the End of the Federal Shutdown and What Comes Next
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The longest federal shutdown in United States history ended last night, with Congress passing a spending package to fund the government through January 30. The following is …
STATEMENT: First Five Years Fund on Senate Deal to Reopen the Federal Government
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last night, the Senate took a step forward in ending the longest government shutdown in United States history. The 60-40 vote paves the way to fund most …
STATEMENT: Protecting Children In A Time of Uncertainty
The first few years of life set the foundation for children’s health, learning, and behavior. During this crucial birth-to-five period, a child’s brain is especially adaptable—but also vulnerable. Repeated exposure …
FFYF’s Sarah Rubinfield on Early Childhood Chats Podcast
Government shutdowns disrupt the lives of families whose little ones rely on Head Start. FFYF Government Affairs Managing Director Sarah Rubinfield recently joined Early Childhood Chats from the Institute for …
Building the Foundation: Head Start Strengthens Early Learning Nationwide
Head Start provides funding directly to local grantees who operate in rural, urban, and suburban communities across the country and tailor programs based on their community’s specific needs and resources. …
TOOLKIT: End the Shutdown Day of Action – October 29th
What an incredible Day of Action! Yesterday, voices nationwide united with a single message to Congress: Protect Head Start and end the shutdown. Nearly 50 organizations across the country took …
MIECHV: Overview
The Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) program provides federal funds to states, territories, and tribal entities for voluntary, evidence-based home visiting services.
Employer-Provided Child Care Credit (45F): Overview
The Employer-Provided Child Care Credit, also known as 45F, is one way to address the needs of both working parents and employers. Under 45F, employers receive a tax credit for …
Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP): Overview
Through flexible spending accounts, the DCAP exclusion gives parents flexibility to choose the type of care that best suits their needs — whether that’s a licensed child care center, home-based …
