The Biden administration said Wednesday it will use $1 billion in COVID-19 relief money to fund Head Start programs, which provide education, health and nutritional services to more than 1 million low-income children.
The funds, which come from the American Rescue Plan Act, “will help more than 1,500 local Head Start programs build back to fully operational, in-person comprehensive services this fall,” according to a Department of Health and Human Services press release.
The money will also promote vaccinations for Head Start workers and their families.
“This is a critical investment to support our children’s health and well-being in communities nationwide,” said Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra in a statement. "These funds from the American Rescue Plan Act will reach more eligible families, provide more comprehensive services, and support Head Start facilities as they begin providing in-person services again.”
This report includes information from The Associated Press.