This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. If you haven't yet become an Insider, now's the perfect time to start exploring our in-depth coverage.

Reflecting on my upbringing in rural Michigan, I realize that while my childhood was filled with meaningful experiences, it was also marked by the harsh realities of poverty. Growing up in a low-income household shaped my early interactions with education and community.

In my formative years, I was fortunate to attend Head Start, a federally funded initiative designed to support low-income families through early childhood education. Established in 1965 as an eight-week pilot program, Head Start has since grown to benefit over 30 million children across the United States, providing them with the foundational skills needed for lifelong learning.

However, in a troubling turn of events earlier this year, five regional offices of the Office of Head Start located in major citiesBoston, New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and Seattlewere closed due to budget cuts imposed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This decision has sparked concern among educators, parents, and advocates who understand the crucial role these programs play in shaping the futures of young children.

For me, attending Head Start was transformative. The program provided the structure and stability I craved, creating a safe and nurturing environment where I could learn and play. Im now an educator with nearly a decades worth of experience in education and social welfare policies, complemented by a masters degree. I firmly believe that my participation in Head Start laid the groundwork for the opportunities I have enjoyed throughout my life.

The memories from my time at Head Start remain vivid. I recall the nametag I wore, which featured a symbol since many of uschildren aged 3 to 5were not yet able to read. My older brother was represented by a wagon, and I wanted to have that symbol too. I also remember the excitement of playing with toys in the classroom, especially the sand table, which was more than just a plaything; it was a tool for developing fine motor skills, enhancing communication, and gaining knowledge through experiential learning.

Head Start was not just about academics; it was a space for social growth. Despite having older siblings, it provided me an opportunity to interact with my peers in a supportive environment. This early socialization was invaluable, as I learned how to forge friendships and navigate relationships outside of my family unit, equipping me with the skills I would need when I transitioned to kindergarten.

The foundation laid during my early years has propelled me toward success in my current life. Today, I hold a deep passion for education and have dedicated my career to it. I have worked in various capacities, from teaching in higher education to early childhood education and K-12 settings. Moreover, I served as the Legislative Director for the New York City Council, focusing on policy issues pertinent to education and poverty.

Although I was born into poverty, educational opportunities enabled me to elevate my life to one of relative comfort and security. I am profoundly grateful for the experiences I had at Head Start, which played a vital role in my journey.

My heart aches for the children of today who may not have access to the same enriching experiences that I was lucky enough to encounter. The potential for escaping poverty seems increasingly daunting without programs like Head Start. Every child deserves a chance at a free, safe, and supportive learning environment. The foundational experiences I gained have shaped me into the person I am todaya writer, an educator, and an advocate for future generations.

Every child, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, deserves the opportunity to flourish and reach their full potential.