The Head Start/Early Head Start programs are funded by a Federal grant which has income guidelines for participation.  Both Head Start and Early Head Start are required to document family income and compare to the federal poverty levels.  Families may also qualify based upon certain factors, such as homelessness or receiving public assistance, e.g., TANF, Child Care Subsidy, and SSI.   Head Start may also accept up to 10% of children who have risk factors which indicate a strong need for a school readiness program but whose families are over the federal poverty income guidelines. 

Head Start provides education and support service to children ages 4 and 5, while Early Head serves pregnant mothers and children to age 3.

 Both programs are offering extended care, thus serving more working families who need longer days and qualify under this category.