—and How We Can Hold Onto Hope

As new policy proposals loom over American families, many are wondering how Project 2025 might shape the future of their children, their work-life balance, and their sense of security. Project 2025 is a comprehensive policy agenda drafted by the Heritage Foundation with plans to shift federal funding and reduce or eliminate many social programs that currently support families. While the agenda’s authors aim to restructure family policies, its effects could be profound—particularly for families who rely on public resources for childcare, healthcare, and early education programs like Head Start.

Here’s a look at how some of these potential changes could impact families and ways we can respond proactively, protect our peace, and hold onto hope for the future.

Redefining "Family Choice"—But at What Cost?

Project 2025 says it wants to give families more choices in childcare by lowering federal support and encouraging families to handle care within their own circles. But this could actually limit choices for parents instead of helping them. Many parents rely on good, quality childcare so they can work and focus on their goals. Childcare is important for kids too because it helps them learn and grow.

If Project 2025 makes federal help smaller, families may lose access to childcare centers. This would be especially tough for single parents and families where both parents work and might not have nearby family or friends to help out regularly. Without these programs, many parents would have to figure out new ways to manage, which can be really stressful and might affect their jobs and finances.

For some families, this may mean making tough choices about work and money, while others might find new ways to make things work.

The Future of Head Start and Early Learning Programs

Head Start has been so important for low-income families. It doesn’t just give kids a place to learn before school but also helps with health and nutrition. It’s a program that’s helped families get out of poverty by giving children a strong start in learning. But if Project 2025 removes Head Start, many families might lose this support. For some, this could mean fewer early learning options and widen gaps in education for kids from different backgrounds.

For many families, Head Start and similar programs have been the only way to get help with childcare and early education. If these disappear, it might be harder for kids to get the learning and support they need to do well in school and life.

Healthcare Changes That Could Affect Kids

Project 2025 might also bring big changes to healthcare. This includes plans to reduce Medicaid and funds for children’s health checks. Kids might miss out on early care for things like hearing or vision issues, asthma, or autism if these cuts happen. This could make it hard for parents who can’t afford private healthcare.

If federal help gets cut, some families might not have the money to pay for these checks and treatments. This could make it harder for some kids to stay healthy, especially for families who rely on programs like Medicaid.

How Families Can Stay Strong

While these changes may seem tough, because they are, I want to offer you some ways to stay hopeful and help each other:

1. Look for Local Support: Community centers and local groups might become even more important. They can help with things like childcare, health checks, and more if federal help isn’t as available.
2. Speak Up for Family-Friendly Policies: Joining town halls or supporting groups that speak up for families can make a difference. It’s a way for families to let their needs be heard. Most of the time you can bring children to these events or places, so don't let that hold you back!
3. Build Strong Connections: Neighbors, friends, and family can be amazing supports, especially when bigger systems feel uncertain. Having a close circle of support can make a big difference when families need practical help or just someone to talk to.

What We Can Control

The possible changes with Project 2025 remind us how important it is to stand up for things that help families thrive. Though some things may feel out of reach, we can build strong connections, find ways to help each other, and look for local resources to face changes with hope.

Families have always found strength in hard times. The love and effort we put into raising our kids and staying connected as a family is powerful, no matter what changes around us. It’s a reminder of the power of the family unit and how much we can face together.

A Commitment to Building Strong Families and Communities

As we prepare for what may come, let’s lean on our communities to create safe and caring places for our families. The future isn’t set, and our voices matter. Together, we can keep hoping, speaking up, and supporting each other no matter what.

In uncertain times, families still have the power to create loving, connected spaces that keep us strong. We might not have all the answers, but together, we can hold on to our family values and face each new challenge. If you need help navigating this as an individual or with your partner, talk with me about coaching.