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Head Start programs provide low-income families with free learning and development services for their children ages birth to 5. All programs welcome children with disabilities. Some Early Head Start programs also provide prenatal services for pregnant women.

Children from birth to age 5 from families with low income, according to the federal Poverty Guidelines, are eligible for Head Start services.Children in foster care, children experiencing homelessness and children from families receiving public assistance (TANF, SSI, or SNAP) are categorically eligible for Head Start services regardless of income.Head Start programs may enroll up to 10% of children from families that have incomes above the Poverty Guidelines. Programs may also serve up to an additional 35% of children from families whose incomes are above the Poverty Guidelines, but below 130% of the poverty line if the program can ensure that certain conditions have been met.Pregnant women may also be eligible for Early Head Start services.

Yes, Head Start and Early Head Start are completely free. Families do not pay any tuition, enrollment fees or monthly costs for official program services, meals or health screenings. To qualify, families generally must meet low-income guidelines, though children in foster care, experiencing homelessness or receiving public assistance are automatically eligible.

Birth to 5We support learning through play, creative expression and guided activities while building strong relationships that create a foundation for early learning. Children develop language and literacy skills, explore early math and science concepts, and build a positive attitude toward learning.Health and WellnessWe promote physical development through indoor and outdoor activities and provide nutritious breakfasts, lunches and snacks. Children receive medical, dental, hearing, vision and behavioral screenings.Social ServicesWe connect families with assistance during challenging times. Families receive support in identifying and reaching goals related to employment, training and parenting.Disability ServicesWe build on each child’s strengths and tailor experiences to meet their individual needs. When further assessment is needed, our team collaborates with community agencies.

Your family qualifies for the Head Start program if your household income is at or below the poverty level. Check the Poverty Guidelines to see if your family qualifies. Families who receive public assistance (TANF, SSI, or SNAP), and those with children in foster care or children who are homeless, also qualify regardless of income.

Head Start programs may enroll up to 10% of children from families that have incomes above the Poverty Guidelines. Programs may also serve up to an additional 35% of children from families whose incomes are above the Poverty Guidelines, but below 130% of the poverty line if the program can ensure certain conditions are met. Contact your local Head Start program for more information.

Reach out to your local Head Start program. They’ll help you find out if your child qualifies, give you the forms you need and tell you what documents you’ll need to submit. If there is not a space for your child, you can ask to be added to the waiting list.

You can submit an application for Head Start or Early Head Start at any time during the year. While many local centers ramp up recruitment and intake in the spring and summer for the upcoming school year, enrollment remains open year-round. If classes are full when you apply, your child will be placed on a waiting list until an opening occurs.

If no Head Start program is near you, look into local public school pre-K options, state subsidized childcare assistance or alternative community preschool programs. Many regions offer local nonprofit childcare and family support. Also reference the resources page to look for services from other partners.

If you are ineligible for Head Start services, ChildCare.gov can help you locate other child care services in your community.

Children in foster care are Head Start-eligible, regardless of family income.