·Federal program
Head Start
Federal early childhood education, health, and nutrition program for low-income children (birth to age 5) and their families. Includes Early Head Start (birth to 3) and Head Start (3 to 5). Administered by ACF/HHS under CFDA 93.600.
What it offers
Comprehensive early childhood services including education, health screenings, dental care, nutrition (meals and snacks), mental health services, and family support. Early Head Start serves pregnant women and children birth to 3. Head Start serves children ages 3 to 5. Programs operate as full-day, part-day, or home-based. Serves approximately 1 million children annually. No cost to families.
Questions that decide eligibility
GiveCare prepares the questions; the program makes the decision. Bring these to the call or the application:
- 01
What are the current income and asset limits, and whose income counts?
Our record lists 100% of the federal poverty level — limits change, so confirm the current figures.
- 02
Does the VA disability rating meet the program’s minimum (our record lists null%)?
- 03
Do the work hours meet the minimum (our record lists null hours)?
- 04
Is there a caregiver-specific department, coordinator, or support line? Ask for it by name.
Many agencies have one that isn’t advertised on the website.
- 05
What documents do you need from us to start an application?
- 06
Is there a waitlist right now, and how long is it?