U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
What it may cover
Varies
Enrollment
Open enrollment
Where available
Check locally
What you get
Early Head Start provides comprehensive child development services — including health, nutrition, and social-emotional development — for low-income pregnant women, infants, and toddlers under age 3. Like Head Start, it is delivered by local grantee organizations including community action agencies, nonprofits, and school districts through both center-based and home visiting models. The program serves approximately 150,000 children and families annually and supports continuous care into Head Start at age 3.
Help paying for child care, meals, or services so parents and caregivers can work, study, or stabilize care.
Check what applies to you. Your answers are saved on this device so you can come back later.
Family income at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level
This program requires income at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level. Select your household size to see your exact dollar limit.
How many people are in your household?
Count everyone who lives and eats with you — yourself, partner, children, and dependents.
If you do not have one of these, apply anyway and ask what substitutes are accepted.
Processing time varies by location and program funding.
Your ZIP helps you confirm the right local office and state-specific rules.
Other programs in the same category that often go hand-in-hand.