"We're looking at the overall development," said Early Head Start Director Shekema Crawford.
Crawford oversees the program by assisting teachers as they develop critical cognitive and social-emotional skills in students under the age of three years old.
"They have to be able to be in the classroom, socialize with other children and follow directions of their teachers," she said.
This federally funded program that's been serving underserved communities in Durham for 30 years could be at risk as the government shutdown extends into its third week.
"We need the shutdown to be ending quickly. We have a grant that would turn over in January. If it's still going, then that could be a problem for us," said Durham's Partnership for Children Executive Director Kate Irish.
Currently, the program serves 128 children and pregnant women through childcare and home visiting services. The free child development program offers support to the Bull City's most vulnerable families.
"That's a key part of this. Quality childcare means that families can go to work and continue on with their jobs and schooling," she said.
Irish said the program continues to draw down federal funds for now. The hope is that Congress strikes a deal soon to end the government shutdown.
"Early Head Start and Head Start are programs that have had bipartisan support for more than 60 years. This is a program everyone agrees is very important and really works," said Irish.
SEE ALSO | Notice sent to NCDHHS about possible disruption to November SNAP benefits as shutdown continues