Head Start

Contact: (228) 769-3292 Ext. 135 headstart@jccivicaction.org

Jackson County Head Start is a nationally accredited, federally funded, comprehensive child development program.

The program serves three- and four-year old children from low-income families. Head Start programs are funded by Department of Health and Human Services/Administration for Children, Youth and Families.

The goal of Head Start is to break the cycle of poverty by working with children and strengthening the family unit. Head Start approaches this goal through a comprehensive program that involves parents and the community in three (3) component areas:

1. Early Childhood Development and Health Services. This unit makes available to children, health, mental health, nutrition, disability services, and child development services.

2. Family and Community Partnership. This unit is designed to establish a firm foundation giving families an opportunity to enhance their child’s educational experience and strengthen the family unit. The program engages in collaborative partnerships with families and community.

3. Program Design and Management. Involves parents in governance and operation of the Head Start process.

Gautier Center Haywood Brooks