What is Head Start?

Head Start is a Federal program for preschool children ages 3 to 5.  To apply for Head Start children must be 3 years old for the current session or be 3 years old by July 31st for the next session which begins in August of each year.  Applications can be taken at our central office on 302 S Joplin Street in Joplin, or at any of our site locations which are listed by county on the left sidebar. 

What documentation is required to apply for Head Start?

• Proof of the child’s birth; birth certificate, hospital record, or Medicaid card.

• Proof of income for the previous calendar year; 1040-tax form, W-2 form(s), pay stub(s), unemployment, workman’s compensation, veteran’s benefits, alimony, child support, military pay, social security, or documentation of current public assistance, (TANF or SSI).

• A current doctor’s immunization record.  (Child must be up-to-date on immunizations).