Skip to main content

Free education and services for families with kids from birth to age 5

Head Start / Early Head Start | U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

Find a program

How it works

Head Start and Early Head Start are free early childhood education programs for low-income families with kids ages 5 and under

  • Programs run year-round, up to 10 hours a day.
  • Early Head Start offers center-based care or home visits, plus meals and health screenings
  • Centers are run by community organizations and nonprofits across NYC
  • Both programs can connect your family with employment, housing, adult education, and health support

Eligibility requirements

Your family may qualify for Head Start or Early Head Start if any of the following apply to you:

  • You live in temporary housing
  • You currently receive cash assistance, SNAP (food stamps), or SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
  • You’re enrolling a child who is in foster care
  • Your household income is at or below these levels:
Household size Yearly income
2 $21,640
3 $27,320
4 $33,000
5 $38,680
6 $44,360
7 $50,040
8 $55,720
For each additional person: +$5,680

You may still qualify even if your income is over the limit. If you spend more than 30 percent of your income on housing costs, Head Start and Early Head Start can subtract those costs when calculating your income. You will need to provide documents showing your housing expenses.

Immigration status requirements

You won’t be asked for proof of citizenship or immigration status when applying for Head Start or Early Head Start.


How to apply


Get help

Visit HeadStart.gov to learn more.


Come back to it later.
We can send you a link to this page to help you get back to it when you’re ready.


Last Updated March 11, 2026

Stay updated on benefits

Get occasional emails about benefits news, upcoming enrollment periods, and deadlines. Translations are available in 11 languages.