The Head Start 0-5 Program is a federally-funded program that provides services to pregnant women and children ages 0-5 that meet the Federal Income Guidelines. The program provides services with no cost for registration or enrollment for families. Currently the program benefits the families of 440 preschool children and 102 pregnant women, infants, and toddlers in the seven counties served by C.E.F.S. Head Start offers both a preschool center-based program for children ages 3-5 and a home-based program for all children and pregnant women. Head Start is serving children in 7 Illinois Counties including: Christian County, Clay County, Effingham county, Fayette County, Montgomery County, Moultrie County, Shelby County. Head Start provides comprehensive services which include not only educational experiences, but also focuses on nutrition, medical, dental, and mental health access, and transportation. Because family life is the key to the growth and enrichment of every child. Head Start, together with community partners, offers opportunities and support to improve the entire family’s quality of life. Parents can participate in Head Start by volunteering in the classroom and serving on the policy council and parent committees. The goal of the Head Start 0-5 Program is to help all children reach their full potential. This is why up to 10% of the Head Start’s enrollment can be “over income” families. Plus, a minimum of 10% of the slots are made available to special needs children regardless of income. The Head Start 0-5 Program is funded by the Department of Health and Human Services.
