Head Start
At a Glance
- Serves expectant parents and children 0-5 years old
- Works with Early Childhood CARES and offers home visits
-
16 children or fewer in the classroom
1 teacher for every 8-9 students - Free meals and supplies
Know Before You Apply
When to Apply
Head Start accepts applications year‑round. For fall enrollment, families are encouraged to apply early between April and June because spaces are limited. Don’t wait until you have all your documents gathered — staff can help you through the process.
Placement
Families can choose their preferred location. Eligible children are placed as long as spaces are available. Program options vary by location and may include part-day, full-day, or home-based care.
More Than One Child?
If you have multiple eligible children, you can apply for all of them at once. Siblings may be given priority depending on space and program. Each child must meet the age and eligibility requirements – Head Start staff can help you through the application process.
Let's Get Started
See If You’re Eligible
If your family meets the age, residency, and income requirements, you can apply to Head Start.
Age
Child must be 0 – 4 years old by September 1 of the school year you want to enroll them.
If your child turns 5 after September 1, they are eligible!
Residency
Child must live in Lane County.
Income
Families who fit into the categories below are automatically income eligible for Head Start:
- Receive certain benefits (like TANF, SSI, SNAP, ERDC)
- Whose household income falls at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level (some spots available for families with income up to 130% of the Federal Poverty Level)
- Facing housing hardship
- Child is in foster care
For Households With Income Below the Maximum Annual Income
| Household Size Size includes parent(s)/legal guardian(s) of applicant child & other relative dependents living in the house. | Maximum Annual Income Income maximum does not apply to children living in foster care. |
|---|---|
| 1 | $20,748 |
| 2 | $28,132 |
| 3 | $35,516 |
| 4 | $42,900 |
| 5 | $50,284 |
| 6 | $57,668 |
| 7 | $65,052 |
| 8 | $72,436 |
Find a Head Start Site
There are many Head Start programs throughout Lane County. To find the one that is right for you, check the Preschool Finder to explore each site’s details and services.
Submit an Application
Once you submit your application, someone from Head Start will call you for a short interview to confirm your eligibility and help you finish the process. Apply on the Head Start website.
Apply Online
Apply to Head Start
Need Help Applying?
If you have trouble accessing the application online, call 541-747-2425. Dial 0 for reception or ext. 1232
Applications can be mailed or emailed upon request. In person application assistance is available at the Head Start main office or in your home upon request.
Head Start of Lane County
221 B Street
Springfield OR 97477
Spots are filled as they become available.
To file a complaint about a child care provider in Oregon, fill out the Online Complaint Form or call the Office of Child Care at 1-800-556-6616. A compliance specialist will collect your information and follow up. You may also contact your provider’s Licensing Specialist, who will forward your complaint.
