Head Start is a federally funded program that provides high-quality early childhood education, health services, and family support to children from birth to age five. It was launched 60 years ago by President Lyndon B. Johnson as part of his War on Poverty, rooted in the belief that every child—no matter their background—deserves a strong start.
These earliest years—birth to age five—are the most critical in a child’s development. Children are most open, vulnerable, and impressionable during this time, and Head Start steps in when it matters most.
The program is research-based and proven to make a lasting difference—supporting children’s development across all domains. That includes social and emotional growth, school readiness skills like early literacy and math, and access to health services such as vision screenings, dental checkups, developmental assessments, and nutritious meals.
But Head Start doesn’t stop with the child. It uses a multi-generational approach—working alongside families on parenting, mental health, substance use recovery, career pathways, education goals, housing stability, and safety. Families set goals like earning a driver’s license, completing high school or college, or finding meaningful employment—and Head Start walks with them every step of the way.
And at the end of the day, all of this works because of the relationships Head Start creates. None of the services matter if children and families don’t trust the support they receive. That’s why Head Start’s first priority is to build a relationship rooted in safety and trust—because lasting change only happens when people feel safe, seen, and supported.
Let’s Talk About Funding.
Head Start is completely free for families because it’s designed to serve those who meet the federal poverty guidelines. Priority is given to children experiencing housing instability, living in foster care, or facing other barriers to opportunity.
In 2024, the federal government invested approximately $12 billion into Head Start nationwide. In Pennsylvania alone, $395.6 million in federal funding supported programs across the state. That investment changes lives—but it still falls short.
The average Head Start teacher earns around $19 per hour, even though they are required to hold credentials—just like school district teachers. Many of our staff earn wages similar to the families we serve. Programs are struggling to retain qualified staff because there are easier jobs with higher pay—and this staffing crisis directly affects access and quality for children and families.
And the impact goes beyond the classroom.
When families lose access to reliable early childhood programs like Head Start, parents and caregivers often have no choice but to reduce their work hours—or leave the workforce entirely. That creates a ripple effect across the economy. Head Start doesn’t just support children and families—it helps communities stay employed, businesses stay staffed, and local economies stay strong.
Right now, Head Start is at risk. Advocates across the country are working to protect the funding we already have. Without it, tens of thousands of children and families could lose access to services that are not just helpful—but essential.
If you want to understand the real impact, visit our Head Start Story Board to hear directly from families and staff. The numbers matter—but the stories are what bring it to life.
Check out our website for ways you can help protect Head Start today.
