Head Start and Early Head Start: quick facts
Head Start and Early Head Start are federally funded programs that promote school readiness for young children from low-income families by supporting their early learning, health, and well-being, and by involving parents. Early Head Start s…
Administered by
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Head Start, via local grantees
Who it's for
Children from birth to age five in low-income families, including children experiencing homelessness and those in foster care; serves all genders. Pregnant women are also served through Early Head Start.
What it funds
Free early-learning, health, nutrition, and family-support services
Repayable?
Free services (not a loan, not repaid)
Where to apply
Contact a local Head Start program; find one through the locator at hhs.gov / eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov
Full head start and early head start page →
Official sources: HHS Administration for Children & Families — Office of Head Start. This page is educational information, not financial or legal advice; grants are competitive and never guaranteed. See our sources & how-we-work policy.