Onward Neighborhood House Early Head Start

Working class families with young children often have limited affordable daycare options. The Onward House Early Childhood Education Program for children ages 2 to 5 is designed to meet the needs of children and parents seeking to better their lives. The year-round, full day, pre-school services allows parents to work full time, pursue their education, and support their families without having to worry about their child's safety and educational development. Our site based and home based programs serve 172 children.

Head Start generally serves children ages 3 to 5 who meet local eligibility requirements. Pregnant women and children from birth to 3 years of age are eligible for Early Head Start services. Children and families who are homeless, in foster care, or receive TANF or SSI are also eligible for services. Eligibility is determined by Head Start program staff and some families may be eligible for services if they are determined to be at or below the federal poverty level. Some grantees enroll a percentage of children from families with incomes above the Poverty Guidelines as well.

Families are encouraged to apply.

Enrolled children are served through two program options: Center Based (at Onward House); or Home Based (at the child's home) In addition to children served through our Center Based or Home Based programs, Onward House serves an additional 134 children with Head Start services through our Partnership Program with five private providers located throughout Chicago. Program fees are determined along a sliding scale. Parents participating in the Early Childhood Program are required to be in school or working a minimum of 25 hours per week. Hours of Operation: 7:00 a.m.–6:00p.m, Monday thru Friday For more information regarding Onward House's Early Childhood program, contact Donna Webb at (312) 666-6726 or dwebb@onwardhouse.org