The future of Flowers Early Learning, previously known as Tri-County Head Start, remains uncertain.
Last Wednesday, the organization closed all 17 locations across Southwest Michigan, affecting 41 classrooms and 583 children for the day, but did resume operations the next day.
Board of Directors Vice-Chair Arthur Havlicek tells us that while Head Start programs were not directly impacted by the funding freeze, there is concern about meeting payroll for the 2025 fiscal year, which began on February 1.
“They are not allowed to roll over any funds from a previous cycle,” Havlicek says. “They were awarded around this time last year to fund their entire program. They had to spend it all down in 2024 and they are right where they should be spending down the very, very last bit.”
The organization is still awaiting confirmation regarding its funding award for the fiscal year. In the meantime, classrooms and staff are continuing their operations as usual while the situation is being addressed.
In a press release, the center emphasized its commitment to collaborating with local, state, and national leaders to ensure that operations can persist throughout the year, providing high-quality care for families.
