About Hawaii Head Start & Early Head Start
Free early childhood education for children birth to age 5 from low-income families across all Hawaiian islands. Includes preschool, health screenings, meals, and family support services. Programs operate on Oahu, Hawaii Island, Maui, Kauai, and Molokai. Especially valuable in Hawaii where private preschool costs $1,200–$1,800/month.
How to Apply in Hawaii
- Find your local Hawaii Head Start at eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator
- Oahu: Honolulu Community Action Program (HCAP) Head Start at 808-521-4531
- Hawaii Island: HCEOC Head Start at 808-961-2681
- Maui: MEO Head Start at 808-249-2970
- Priority for families below poverty line, homeless, or in foster care
- Enrollment is year-round — apply anytime
Contact & Official Links
Phone: 1-808-521-4531
Official website: eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator
See Everything You Qualify For in Hawaii
Hawaii 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 Hawaii Head Start & Early Head Start worth?
Hawaii Head Start & Early Head Start: Worth ~$900/month (free preschool). Eligible households may receive a benefit worth up to ~$900 per month.
Hawaii Head Start & Early Head Start: Worth ~$900/month (free preschool). Eligible households may receive a benefit worth up to ~$900 per month.
How do I apply for Hawaii Head Start & Early Head Start in Hawaii?
To apply: Find your local Hawaii Head Start at eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator. Oahu: Honolulu Community Action Program (HCAP) Head Start at 808-521-4531. Hawaii Island: HCEOC Head Start at 808-961-2681. You can also call 1-808-521-4531. Official website: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator
To apply: Find your local Hawaii Head Start at eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator. Oahu: Honolulu Community Action Program (HCAP) Head Start at 808-521-4531. Hawaii Island: HCEOC Head Start at 808-961-2681. You can also call 1-808-521-4531. Official website: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator
Who qualifies for Hawaii Head Start & Early Head Start?
Free early childhood education for children birth to age 5 from low-income families across all Hawaiian islands. Includes preschool, health screenings, meals, and family support services. Final eligibility is determined by the program when you apply. Beneify's free screener can estimate your eligibility in about 3 minutes.
Free early childhood education for children birth to age 5 from low-income families across all Hawaiian islands. Includes preschool, health screenings, meals, and family support services. Final eligibility is determined by the program when you apply. Beneify's free screener can estimate your eligibility in about 3 minutes.