Pace Community Action Agency says it will keep classrooms and community programs open despite funding delays caused by the ongoing federal government shutdown.
The agency’s Head Start program — which serves around 260 children in Knox, Daviess, Greene, and Sullivan counties — won’t not receive its federal grant because of the shutdown. CEO Tai Blythe took to social media to say she wants to be transparent about the challenge but assures families that services will continue for now.
“I’ve heard some people say, I heard that you’re closing November 1st. That is not true. We are not closing as of November 1st,” Blythe said. “I’ve also heard some people say you’re trying to scare people by sharing this information. I’m not trying to scare anyone. I want to be transparent. That’s who we are as an agency.”
Blythe says Head Start, Energy Assistance, and Health Connection services are continuing thanks to local support. She notes that community donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations have made it possible to stay open during the shutdown.
“Thanks to the support of businesses, foundations, individuals and all of those that have donated, we’re going to be able to continue keeping our doors open at this time,” she said.
Pace encourages residents to follow its social media pages for updates and contact the agency with questions about ongoing programs.
