Head Start Awareness Month Kicks Off in October: Supporting America’s Children and Families

Washington, D.C. — The National Head Start Association (NHSA) is proud to announce Head Start Awareness Month in October. This countrywide celebration highlights the enduring national commitment to breaking the generational cycle of poverty by providing access to critical early childhood education and support to families in need. 

Started in 1965, Head Start has been a model and cornerstone in comprehensive early childhood education, providing high-quality education, health, nutrition, and family resources to children from income-eligible families across all 50 states. Today, Head Start serves 800,000 children and families annually, delivering essential services and opportunities that many would otherwise lack.

As communities continue recovering from the economic and social effects of the pandemic, Head Start’s wraparound services remain crucial for families who have been hit hardest. With increasing challenges related to income inequality, affordable child care, and access to quality education, the role of Head Start is more vital than ever.

“Head Start is more than a classroom—it’s a community. By investing in children from an early age, we are investing in the future of our country,” said NHSA Executive Director Yasmina Vinci. “Now more than ever, we need to ensure that every child, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the opportunities that Head Start provides.”

Celebrating Head Start Awareness Month

Throughout October, programs, advocates, and alumni will be participating in activities to raise awareness of Head Start’s impact. The public is encouraged to join the conversation using the hashtag #HeadStartAwareness and share stories of how Head Start has transformed lives. 

About Head Start

Head Start is the largest early education provider in the U.S., serving 800,000 children annually. It supports children from before birth to age five and their families, offering a 360-degree approach to education, health, and family well-being. To date, Head Start has helped more than 37 million children prepare for success in school and life.