How To Apply

Eligibility Criteria Head Start and Early Head Start services are available for applicants who meet the eligibility criteria. Your family may be eligible for the Head Start and Early Head Start program if any of the following criteria are met: Your household income level is within Federal poverty guidelines Your child has a disability. Ten percent of Head Start's enrollment slots must be made available to children with a certified disability Your child is a foster child Your family is receiving public assistance such as SSI or TANF benefits Head Start and Early Head Start age criteria for children are as follows: For the Early Head Start program: birth through three years old For the Head Start program: three to four years old by September 1st Expectant mothers may also apply for Early Head Start services - preference is given to expectant teen mothers There may be additional eligibility criteria. Please contact the Head Start provider in your community to find out if your child could be eligible for Head Start services. Applying for Services There are several steps to applying for Head Start services. Step 1. Locate the agency providing Head Start services in your community Step 2. Make an appointment to complete an application Step 3. Follow up by submitting requested documentation about your child Step 1 - Locate and click the agency providing Head Start services in your community. Head Start for Phoenix residents Head Start in Eastern Maricopa County Head Start in Western Maricopa County Head Start Outside of Maricopa County Step 2 - Make an appointment to complete an application. We accept applications on a year-round basis. To make an appointment at our Mesa office, please call (480) 464-9669 x200 To make an appointment at our Peoria office, please call (623) 486-9868 Please bring the following items to your application appointment: The most recent pay stub for all members of your immediate household A copy of your child's immunization records A copy of your child's birth certificate. Visit the National Center for Health Statistics if you need information about where you can obtain a copy of your child's birth certificate A copy of your child's Individualized Education Plan (IEP), if he or she has a disability and already has an IEP in place Step 3 – Follow-up by submitting all requested documentation about your child. Proof of current immunizations. This documentation is required prior to your child's first day in the Head Start classroom Proof of a physical examination by a doctor or nurse practitioner Proof of a dental examination If you do not have access to these medical services, Head Start staff can assist you in obtaining low-cost or free health care services.