Economic Security Corporation (ESC) provides a comprehensive array of services to pregnant women, children ages 0 to 5 and their families. These services are designed to help low-income children reach their full potential, and enter school ready to learn. Available programs include:

Head Start...
Provides comprehensive services to children ages 3-5. The unique array of services prepares children for school and gives them a "head start" in breaking the cycle of poverty. Over 700 children are served in ESC's Head Start program. Centers are located in each county in a variety of locations and transportation is provided to nearly all Head Start families. Program benefits and services include:

• Education...
  Uses a curriculum that encourages children to be creative, curious and independent thinkers who can get along well with others
• Health...
  Provides medical and dental examinations as well as vision, hearing and other developmental screenings
• Nutrition...
  Serves breakfast, lunch and snack, designed by a dietician to meet their daily nutritional needs
• Parent Involvement...
  Involves parents in the classroom, parent group activities and program planning and decision making
• Social Services...
  Provides counseling, support and referral services for parents which improve the condition and quality of family life
• Disability Services...
  Works with the local school district to identify special needs

Full Start...
A full day version of the Head Start program which better accomodates working families. The program provides all of the same benefits and services as regular Head Start.



Early Head Start...
Provides comprehensive services to pregnant women, children ages 0-3 and their families. Early Head Start supports and assists parents in meeting their family goals in balance with the needs of their child. Each family is assigned a Family Education and Support Specialist, who through weekly or bi-weekly home visits, provides information and activities to promote the intellectual, social, physical and emotional growth of infants and toddlers. Program benefits and services include:

• Child care referrals and up to 100% of child care fees paid
• Health, nutrition, developmental, hearing, vision and dental screenings
• Information on and assistance with Well Baby and/or Well Child exams
• Monthly parent "get-togethers"
• Transportation to Early Head Start appointments and activities
• Automatic slot in Head Start once a child turns three (if still income eligible)

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Copyright © 1996-2004, Economic Security Corporation of Southwest Area
P.O. Box 207, 302 Joplin
Joplin, MO 64802
417-781-0352
For questions about ESC contact rhopper@escswa.org
For technical questions about this site contact Technical Support - www.escswa.org