Head Start programs are Federally funded by the Department of Health and Human Services and provide comprehensive, developmental services for low-income pre-school children ages three to five and social services for their families.  The purpose of the Head Start program is to promote school readiness by enhancing the social and cognitive development of children through the provision of health, educational, nutritional, social and other services.  The cornerstone of the program is parent and community development.

Head Start is a tax exempt, non-profit organization operated by the Community Action Program Committee, Incorporated (CAPC).

ELIGIBILITY

To be eligible for Head Start, families must qualify according to income guidelines (issued by the Department of Health and Human Services) or have a child with a diagnosed disability.  These children are provided special services that address their individual needs.

All children in Head Start are between the ages of three and five years old and participate in a variety of educational activities that help them grow mentally, socially, emotionally and physically.  They also receive free medical and dental care, have healthy meals and enjoy playing indoors and outdoors in a safe setting.

Head Start meets the licensing requirements as set forth by Florida's Department of Children and Families.  Parent involvement and social services are provided.  With the assistance of a Family Advocate, each family completes a self assessment and establishes a written goal plan which is monitored throughout the program year.

2009 FAMILY INCOME GUIDELINES

 Note: For families with more than eight (8) persons, add $3,740 for each additional person.

HEAD START'S FOCUS IS HELPING CHILDREN SUCCEED BY GETTING A "HEAD START" IN LIFE.