Emotions ran high at a Michigan Senate Oversight Committee hearing this week as it took testimony from non-profit leaders about how the Trump administration’s announcement of a federal funding freeze has impacted their organizations.
Flowers Early Learning CEO Chanda Hillman told senators their federal funding was at risk, but it finally came through.
“In our three counties alone, we have served over 40,000 children,” Hillman said. “If funding goes away, 583 children will lose their early education opportunities, 200 staff members will lose their job, and entire communities will feel the ripple effect. This isn’t just a funding issue, it’s a workforce issue, a public health issue, and a future of Michigan issue.”
Flowers Early Leaning is a Headstart program here in Southwest Michigan. Hillman asked the state senators to do what they can to ensure continued federal funding.
A federal judge has blocked the freeze for the time being, but the nonprofit leaders say they are still worried.
