11/04/2025

GOGEBIC COUNTY - Gogebic Ontonagon County Head Start, serving low-income families with three- and four-year-olds, has temporarily closed due to the government shutdown. Director Renee Pertile says the shutdown prevents grant processing, delaying November 1st funding needed for staff and operations. The program, which offers meals, school readiness, family support, and health services, impacts dozens of Western U.P. families. Pertile’s team is connecting families with other resources, and a church is fundraising. Reopening may be delayed even after the shutdown due to continued grant processing issues. Families will be updated and won’t need to re-enroll.