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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Q. Does Head Start Accept Children with Disabilities or Special Needs?
A. The Head Start Act of 2007 requires that "not less than 10 percent of the total number of children actually enrolled by each Head Start agency and each delegate agency will be children with disabilities who are determined to be eligible for special education and related services, or early intervention services...by the State or local agency providing services under section 619 or part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act [IDEA] (20 U.S.C. 1419, 1431 et seq.)." [Resource: eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov]
Q. How Do I Find a Head Start Program Near Me?
A. If you need help finding a Head Start program in your area, please visit this website for Center Listings under Head Start.
Q. Is My Child Eligible for Head Start or Early Head Start?
A. Children from birth to age five from families with low income, according to the Poverty Guidelines published by the federal government, are eligible for Head Start and Early Head Start services. Children in foster care, homeless children, and children from families receiving public assistance (TANF or SSI) are categorically eligible for Head Start and Early Head Start services regardless of income. Head Start programs may enroll up to 10% of children from families that have incomes above the Poverty Guidelines. Programs may also serve up to an additional 35% of children from families whose incomes are above the Poverty Guidelines, but below 130% of the poverty line if the program can ensure that certain conditions have been met. Pregnant women may also be eligible for Early Head Start. [Resource: eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov]
Q. What If My Income Level Is Higher Than the Poverty Guidelines?
A. Head Start programs may enroll up to 10% of children from families that have incomes above the Poverty Guidelines. Programs may also serve up to an additional 35% of children from families whose incomes are above the Poverty Guidelines, but below 130% of the poverty line if the program can ensure that certain conditions described in the section 645 (a)(1)(B)(iii)(II) of the Head Start Act have been met. [Resource: eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov]