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Head Start

Head Start / Early Head Start

Agency: US HHS Office of Head Start; NYC programs via ACS/DOE NYC Early Learn & direct grantees

Standard · $59

In short

Free early education, meals, health/dental screening, family support for prenatal–5 (Early Head Start 0–3; Head Start 3–5). Families at or below 100% FPL, or categorically eligible: SNAP/TANF/SSI recipients, homeless, foster children; some slots up to 130% FPL.

What you get
Free early education, meals, health/dental screening, family support for prenatal–5 (Early Head Start 0–3; Head Start 3–5).
Who qualifies
Families at or below 100% FPL, or categorically eligible: SNAP/TANF/SSI recipients, homeless, foster children; some slots up to 130% FPL.
Income limit (2026)
100% of 2026 HHS poverty guideline (family of 4 ~US$32,150 in 2025 guideline; 2026 guideline unverified).
Papers to gather
Child birth certificate, income proof or benefit letter, address proof, immunizations.
Renewal
Eligibility generally holds until child ages out.

Some details here could not be confirmed yet. We check every rule with the agency before you apply.

Official page: eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov