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Head Start
Head start offers services for children 0-5 in a comprehensive, family-focused, early childhood development program.
Head Start offers services for children in a comprehensive, family-focused, early childhood development program. Our preschool program serves children ages 3 to 5 in full- or half-day options (some year-round) and focuses on setting children up for success in school and life. Our Early Head Start program is a year-round program for children ages birth to 3 years and pregnant moms.
This program is intended to nurture and support strong parent/ child bonds and help young children grow and develop. Families receive home visits to provide information about child development and resources for the family. Families are also given the opportunity to join family social events. For children 2 to 3 years of age, in addition to home visits, we offer the opportunity for classroom experiences twice per week for 3.5 hours to help them be ready to join the classroom once they transition to the preschool program.
Eligibility Requirements
130% FPL income limit
This program is for families at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level; those experiencing homelessness and foster care are automatically eligible.
| Household | 100% FPL | 130% FPL | 200% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 People | $19,720 | $25,636 | $39,440 |
| 3 People | $24,860 | $32,318 | $49,720 |
| 4 People | $30,000 | $39,000 | $60,000 |
| 5 People | $35,140 | $45,682 | $70,280 |
| 6 People | $40,280 | $52,364 | $80,560 |
| 7 People | $45,420 | $59,046 | $90,840 |
| 8 People | $50,560 | $65,728 | $101,120 |
Automatic Eligibility
You’re automatically eligible for Head Start and Early Head Start if you meet any of these criteria:
• You’re within the Federal Poverty Guidelines
• You’re receiving TANF, SNAP, or SSI benefits
• You have a child in foster care
• You meet specific living situation requirements
Age Restriction
For the preschool program, your child needs to be 3 years old by September 1st of the current year, and not turning 5 before that same date.
Early Head Start
For Early Head Start, pregnant women of any age qualify. If you have a child, they need to be between 0-3 years old and not turning 3 before September 1st of the current year.
Steps to Enrollment
- Complete the Application
Fill out this application form to get started with the process.
- Provide Income Proof
Submit documentation to show your income, which can be your latest tax return, W-2s, a recent pay stub with year-to-date totals, or an SSI or Unemployment Award letter.
- Contact for More Information or Assistance
If you’re interested in more details, click this link and specify the best days and times to reach you. For any questions or help with the application, call 503-472-2000.
Required Documents
Make sure you have the following documents available when applying.
- For income verification
To verify eligibility based on income, program staff must use tax forms, pay stubs, or other proof of income to determine the family income for the relevant time period.
- Public Assistance
Providing an award letter if the family is receiving TANF, SSI (Supplemental Security Income), or SNAP.