1. How it Works
Head Start programs provide safe and positive environments for children age 3-4 to learn, play, and build the skills that get them ready for kindergarten and beyond. Programs also provide health, nutrition, and other services to children and their families.
- Your child can begin a Head Start program at any time of the year if you qualify and there are open seats.
- Programs are free and run year-round for at least eight hours a day.
- Your child can get nutritious meals and health screenings.
- Head Start programs also help parents and families achieve their own goals. These include employment, housing, adult education, and accessing health services.
- Limited space is also available in Early Head Start programs, which serve pregnant mothers, infants, and toddlers.
- Head Start programs are located in centers run by community organizations and non-profits.
- Eligibility is based on your family’s income, housing situation, and/or if you get HRA cash assistance or SSI.
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More ways to get help with this program
Visit the website
Learn more about Head Start from NYCDOE.
Call 311
Ask for “Head Start” if you need help finding a program.
2. Determine your eligibility
Your family may qualify for Head Start if at least one of these categories applies to you:
- You live in temporary housing
- You receive HRA Cash Assistance
- You receive SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- You’re enrolling a child who is in foster care
- Your family income falls below the amounts below:
| Household size | Yearly income |
| 1 | $14,580 |
| 2 | $19,720 |
| 3 | $24,860 |
| 4 | $30,000 |
| 5 | $35,140 |
| 6 | $40,280 |
| 7 | $45,420 |
| 8 | $50,560 |
| Each Additional Person | $5,140 |
The best way to find out if your family is eligible for Head Start is to contact a program directly.
Take a short survey to see if you might be eligible for this or 30 other programs.
Am I Eligible?Next section:
3. How to apply
Here are your options.
Apply in person
To find and apply to a Head Start program:
- Go to MySchools (3-k) or MySchools (Pre-K).
- Click “More Filters”. Select the “Head Start” checkbox under “Year-Round 3-K / Pre-K Programs”.
- Type in your home address to search for a program.
- Contact a program that you’re interested in.
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