Name of program: Head Start

What is the program’s goal? Head Start endeavors to strengthen the ability of disadvantaged children to succeed in formal education by providing a program to meet their emotional, social, physical, cognitive, health and nutritional needs in nurturing and stimulating environments. Head Start also provides parents with the knowledge and services they need to build a better life for their children and themselves.

When was the program established at EOC? Fresno County EOC began operating Head Start in 1968.

Who do you help (client base)? Head Start serves preschool children between the ages of 3 - 5 and their families.

What are the eligibility requirements? Applicants must live in Fresno County and have a child between the ages of 3 -5 years of age. Priority is given to applicants whose income is below the federal poverty guidelines. Children must be up to date on all immunizations. Children with disabilities are welcome.

How many clients do you serve monthly/annually? Fresno County EOC Head Start serves approximately 3600 children and families annually.

Who is the current program manager/director? Tamala Olsby

How many employees work for this program? Head Start employs over 600 persons in a variety of professional fields.

Where is your office / are your offices located? Head Start’s administrative staff offices are located in the Central Office at 1920 Mariposa Mall, Suite #200, in downtown Fresno. Individual Center Base and Home Base offices are located throughout the Fresno County area.

Tell us about one of your “success stories.”

From a current Head Start mother:

“As a single parent of six children, I would just like to say I wouldn’t be where I am today if it had not been for Head Start. All my children have attended the Head Start program and have had access to all the great components Head Start has to offer.

Growing up in a broken home caused me to make some bad choices in my life that I am not proud of. I was a severe risk factor to continue the vicious cycle I was raised in and pass it on to my kids. I never had positive thoughts and I never thought I would amount to anything.

Since the beginning, Head Start has tried to form a positive relationship with me. Head Start has gone up and beyond the call of duty in my eyes. They have become the family that I never had.

Head Start also encouraged me to continue my education. I’ve switched my major to Child Development to help the program like they helped me. As much as the program has helped my children succeed in their areas, they have given them even something better. They have empowered their mother so she could be a good mother and a positive role model to her children.” Jessica Chavez, parent