Description:Early Head Start offers a home visiting program for pregnant women and children 0-3, and a center-base option for children 0-3 years. Both programs support children and families during the very first stages of life to build a strong foundation for growth and learning. Services are offered throughout Santa Cruz County, including Watsonville, Freedom, and the San Lorenzo Valley.
Head Start offers a part-day (3 1/2 hours) and extended day (6 hours) preschool programs for children ages 3 to 5. We focus on supporting children and families to be ready for school by providing opportunities for social and emotional growth; focusing on physical, mental, and dental health; and partnering closely with parents and families. Classes are offered at 16 centers located throughout Santa Cruz and Watsonville.
State Pre-K (CSPP) offers high quality early education and support services for eligible children 3-5 and their families.
Eligibility: Early Head Start: Children ages 0-3 and pregnant women and Pre-K Children ages 3-5 that meet at least one of the following:
- Income: Families that earn less than the federal income guidelines;
- CalWORKS or SSI: Families that receive CalWORKS or Supplemental Security Income are automatically eligible;
- Foster Care: Children in foster care are automatically eligible;
- Homelessness: Children who are experiencing homelessness are automatically eligible.
Additional options: Income requirements may be waived (up to 10% of program enrollment for applications that are "over-income" if the child has a diagnosed disability.)
Head StartChildren ages 3-5 that meet at least ONE of the following criteria:
- Income: Families that earn less than federal income guidelines;
- CalWORKS or SSI: are automatically eligible;
- Foster Care: Children in Foster Care are automatically eligible;
- Homelessness: Children who are experiencing homelessness are automatically eligible. - Additional options: Income requirements may be waived (up to 10% of program enrollment) for applications that are "over-income" if the child has a diagnosed disability, is transitioning from Early Head Start to Head Start, or is receiving adoption subsidy.
Requirements: Application (paper or online), verification documents (immunizations, income verification, birth certificates, medical card. Program staff will support.
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