Head Start operator working to avoid summer disruption

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Monroe County’s Early Head Start program may be forced to close its doors this summer, impacting hundreds of families and staff in Rochester.

For nearly 60 years, Action for a Better Community, has been operating the federally funded preschool program for Monroe County families with low incomes. This year, the Health and Human Services Department is re-negotiating the estimated $15 to $16 million annual contract.

The existing contract ends in June. The new contract period doesn’t begin until September. The The Head Start program for children who are 4 and 5 years old is aligned with the typical school year calendar which begins in September. But, the Early Head Start program operates year-round and serves children up to 3 years old.

Jerome Underwood leads Action for a Better Community, Inc. He says about $2 million is needed to keep the program for infants and toddlers running in July and August and to prevent layoffs next month. Underwood says he is working with city, county, state and federal partners to supplement the program while they wait for HHS to approve the new contract. He says a decision is expected in a couple of weeks. “Out of an abundance of caution and to make sure there is no lapse in services we are seeking funding for the period of July and August”, said Underwood.

Congressman Joe Morelle’s office confirms they are working with ABC and federal partners to actively pursue a resolution. While there are no guarantees that ABC will be the organization chosen to run the preschool program in Monroe County, Underwood says they are optimistic and confident in the application they submitted. “We do hope because of our long history, we do hope we will be selected. ” ABC operates Head Start classes in six locations across Monroe County and also partners with IBERO American Action League to provide services to children.

Click here to go to ABC’s website for a full statement explaining the current Head Start federal contract process, potential layoffs and funding needs.

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