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 is Early Head Start?

Early Head Start is a Federal program that provides comprehensive services to promote family and child development for prenatal moms and children birth - 3 years old.  To be eligible to apply for Early Head Start you must be a pregnant woman or a child under 29 months of age. 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.

• Call:  1-833-718-0352
• Email:  For a Head Start or Early Head Start Application

What documentation is required to apply for

Head Start/Early 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, (TA or SSI).

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