What are the eligibility requirements to qualify for Head Start?
Eligibility for Head Start services is primarily based on: • The child’s age • His/her family’s income • Whether the child has a disability Other factors taken into consideration include: Parental status: emancipated minor, one or two parent household, foster care, or non-biological custodian Various social conditions that could include, but are not limited to: terminal illness or death in the family, abuse, substance abuse, other siblings attending Head Start programs, referrals from other agencies, mental health of the parent, homelessness, education of parent, non-English speaking family, etc. Expectant mothers should apply for Head Start assistance as soon as possible to limit the time their children are on a waiting list. The criteria for eligibility can vary with each Head Start program. Contact your program with specific eligibility questions.
