Head Start programs begin to close as funding ends during government shutdown

With the Senate gone for the weekend, the federal shutdown is poised to stretch at least through Monday. In Wisconsin, nine Head Start centers will close in early November, and Richland Center is closing Friday, temporarily laying off teacher Stephanie Wallace. Nationwide, about 140 programs serving roughly 65,000 children lose funding Nov. 1, threatening child care, health and nutrition services. SNAP benefits are set to expire Saturday, compounding strain. After failed votes and blame, the 2025 shutdown is set to tie the 34 day record, as Trump urges ending the filibuster and Democrats bank on ACA sticker shock.