YAKIMA, Wash. – The Washington State Employment Security Department recently issued a layoff warning for 198 workers at Epic Centers in Yakima.
Epic Centers offer Head Start and Early Head Start programs, serving more than 1,000 children, according to the organization. The programs aim to provide early childhood education to families in need.
Head Start programs in Washington are currently experiencing a funding crisis. This issue has been exacerbated by the closure of the regional Head Start office in Seattle.
Earlier this year, the Trump administration reduced funding for the Head Start program nationwide. This decision has impacted numerous centers and families relying on these services.
In response to the funding cuts, Washington Attorney General Nick Brown has joined a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s decision. Brown says that the cuts violate constitutional provisions and federal laws.
The community continues to grapple with the potential impact of these layoffs, as families and employees face uncertainty. The situation underscores the broader challenges faced by Head Start programs across the nation.
