An Academy Award–Nominated Film that Shows How Head Start’s Focus on Good Nutrition Changes Lives

And now, decades later, see how Head Start’s foundation helped one of the featured mothers and daughters continue transforming their lives.

In the 1960s, the nation was introduced to one of the most powerful ideas behind Head Start: that good nutrition is essential to children’s ability to learn and thrive. This idea came to life in the Academy Award–nominated documentary Jenny is a Good Thing, which featured young mother Johnny Stallings and her daughter Tabitha as they experienced how Head Start nourished not just children’s bodies—but their futures.

For Johnny, Head Start was a lifeline—nutritious meals, a warm community, and the chance to grow as a parent, including going back to school to set and pursue career goals, provide for her family and ultimately earn a doctorate degree. For Tabitha, it opened a world of discovery: fresh vegetables on the table, new friends, and a joyful classroom.

Decades later, that early investment continues to ripple forward. Tabitha built a career in early childhood education, and after a career in the military and private sector, becoming a Head Start Early Head Start Child Care Partnership Supervisor, while her siblings also flourished. Their story reflects what Head Start has done for millions: opened doors, fueled dreams, and strengthened communities.

Today, nutrition remains a cornerstone of Head Start. Family-style healthy meals teach children to eat well, share, and thrive. Just as in the 1960s, those daily meals still lay the foundation for lifelong health, learning, and opportunity.

Watch the documentary Jenny is a Good Thing to see how the power of nutritious food continues to change lives—then and now.