About DC Head Start / Early Head Start
Comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services for low-income families with children from birth to 5 years old. DC Head Start goes beyond education — it includes health screenings, nutritious meals, family support services, and special needs support. Free for qualifying families.
How to Apply in District of Columbia
- Contact DC's Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE)
- Apply through a local Head Start or Early Head Start center
- Provide proof of income (at or below federal poverty level)
- Children from birth to 5 years old are eligible
- Priority for families experiencing homelessness, foster children, and families receiving TANF
Contact & Official Links
Phone: 202-727-6436
Official website: osse.dc.gov/service/head-start
See Everything You Qualify For in District of Columbia
DC Head Start / Early Head Start is one of many programs you may be eligible for. Beneify screens your household against the full program list — free, private, about 3 minutes.
Start Free Screening ›Frequently Asked Questions
How much is DC Head Start / Early Head Start worth?
DC Head Start / Early Head Start: Worth $9,600/year per child. Eligible households may receive a benefit worth up to ~$800 per month.
DC Head Start / Early Head Start: Worth $9,600/year per child. Eligible households may receive a benefit worth up to ~$800 per month.
How do I apply for DC Head Start / Early Head Start in District of Columbia?
To apply: Contact DC's Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). Apply through a local Head Start or Early Head Start center. Provide proof of income (at or below federal poverty level). You can also call 202-727-6436. Official website: https://osse.dc.gov/service/head-start
To apply: Contact DC's Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). Apply through a local Head Start or Early Head Start center. Provide proof of income (at or below federal poverty level). You can also call 202-727-6436. Official website: https://osse.dc.gov/service/head-start
Who qualifies for DC Head Start / Early Head Start?
Comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services for low-income families with children from birth to 5 years old. DC Head Start goes beyond education — it includes health screenings, nutritious meals, family support services, and special needs support. Final eligibility is determined by the program when you apply. Beneify's free screener can estimate your eligibility in about 3 minutes.
Comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services for low-income families with children from birth to 5 years old. DC Head Start goes beyond education — it includes health screenings, nutritious meals, family support services, and special needs support. Final eligibility is determined by the program when you apply. Beneify's free screener can estimate your eligibility in about 3 minutes.