The White House Budget Proposal: What’s at Risk and What You Can Do

Well, it’s happening. We’re starting to see the first draft of the White House budget proposal—and it’s a bloodbath for the social safety net. Major cuts are on the table for programs like Head Start, LIHEAP, and housing vouchers. Let’s break down what’s at risk, what this could mean for you and your family, and most importantly, what you can do about it.

But first, have you ever counted on any of these programs to keep things going? Drop a quick yes or no in the comments and let me know!

What’s Happening

Every year, the White House sends Congress a budget proposal. It’s basically a wish list outlining what the administration wants to fund—and what it wants to cut. Congress doesn’t have to follow it, but it does give us a clear look at the government’s priorities.

Based on what we’re seeing so far, it’s clear the administration wants to slash costs fast. Many programs that support low-income individuals and families are at risk. Although we won’t know all the details until the full budget is released, early drafts have alarmed advocates across the country.

According to a draft memo obtained by multiple news outlets, the proposed cuts would eliminate key programs, consolidate departments, and slash one-third of federal health spending. While this would save tens of billions annually, the human cost would be devastating.

LIHEAP Gone

I talked to you just last week about the layoffs at LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program), and I was hoping it was just a restructuring. Sadly, it’s worse. The budget memo calls for the complete elimination of LIHEAP by simply refusing to fund it.

LIHEAP helps about 6 million households annually with heating and cooling costs—a critical lifeline as utility bills rise and weather events intensify. Right now, 1 in 6 households is behind on utility bills, owing a staggering $21 billion.

Worse still, states are still waiting on $378 million from this year’s funding, money that could help over 750,000 households stay cool this summer. With no one left at HHS to manage it, and no clear answers from Washington, some states may be forced to cancel summer assistance programs.

And that’s just the beginning.

Housing Programs Slashed

The Housing Choice Voucher program—better known as Section 8—helps over 2 million low-income families afford private rental housing. Even now, only 1 in 4 eligible families actually gets a voucher, with many waiting months or years.

Now, this critical program is under threat. The draft budget proposes major cuts, with discussions about reducing vouchers or replacing them with smaller state grants. This shift would make rental help harder to access, especially in rural areas.

Additionally, work requirements and time limits could be added, affecting seniors, people with disabilities, and those with unstable jobs. Meanwhile, the Emergency Housing Voucher program—launched during the pandemic—is running out of funds early. Without action, 60,000 people could lose their homes, including families, veterans, and survivors of abuse.

These aren’t just statistics. They represent real people—our neighbors, friends, and families—fighting to stay housed.

Head Start Eliminated

Head Start has been a cornerstone for young children and working parents for nearly 60 years. Serving nearly 800,000 children, it provides preschool education, meals, health services, and family support for low-income families.

The new budget draft proposes eliminating Head Start entirely. That would mean shuttering over 17,000 centers, laying off more than 250,000 workers, and leaving millions of parents without affordable childcare options. According to the National Head Start Association, over 1 million parents could be forced out of the workforce.

It’s an ironic blow, especially as the administration emphasizes work requirements elsewhere.

New SNAP Changes

Changes are also coming for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), especially for a group known as ABAWDs—Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents. Under federal rules, these individuals can only get SNAP benefits for three months in a three-year period unless they’re working or in a program.

Previously, states could request waivers during economic downturns. The new memo makes those waivers much harder to obtain, even if unemployment remains high.

The USDA’s stance is clear: they can waive the requirements but don’t have to. The goal, they say, is to encourage self-sufficiency. But in reality, these restrictions could push vulnerable individuals—and the communities they live in—into deeper crisis.

The good news: if you have young children, are pregnant, homeless, a veteran, or have a disability, these changes shouldn’t affect you.

Have you or someone you know been impacted by SNAP work requirements or time limits? Share your story in the comments!

Some Good News

I know this is a lot to take in, and it’s happening fast. But here’s the good news: none of this is final yet. The president can propose a budget, but it’s Congress that decides what gets funded.

Historically, Congress often rejects or modifies presidential budgets. So while the proposed cuts are alarming, there’s still time to act.

And that’s where you come in.

What You Can Do

If you care about programs like Head Start, SNAP, or housing vouchers, now is the time to make your voice heard.

• Contact your representatives. Find their contact information at congress.gov.
• Share your story. Personal stories can influence lawmakers.
• Support advocacy organizations. Groups like the National Head Start Association and the National Low Income Housing Coalition are actively fighting these changes.

The National Head Start Association is gathering signatures for a letter you can sign online. Every voice matters, and your story could help protect vital programs.

Please drop a comment below and let me know how you’re doing, how you feel about this, and which of these programs matter most to you.

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