BenefitHHS Office of Head StartIncome-based
Head Start & Early Head Start
Free early-childhood program for eligible infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Includes meals and family services. Apply directly at a local center.
Typical award
Free early learning, meals, and family support
Time to apply
About 1 hour
Ease
Straightforward
Why this is (relatively) easy
Local intake, not a national essay contest. Priority groups are clearly listed.
Who usually qualifies
- Children from birth to 5 in eligible families
- Income at or below poverty, or receiving TANF / SNAP / SSI
- Homeless families, children in foster care, and children with disabilities get priority
What to have ready
- Proof of income or benefits
- Child's age / birth record
Steps
- 1
Use the Head Start Center Locator to find a nearby program.
- 2
Call and ask for an enrollment packet.
- 3
Complete a short intake; waitlists move as seats open.
Deadline: Enroll any time; fall is busiest. Official program page