Early Head Start is a federally funded community-based program for low-income families to promote healthy prenatal outcomes for pregnant women, enhance the development of very young children (birth to 3 years of age), and to support healthy family functioning.
Program Options
Benefits for the Entire Family
Parents as Partners
In our Head Start programs, we partner with parents and emphasize their role as the child’s first and most important teacher.
In partnership with parents, our staff:
Parent and family engagement services include an extensive parent education program that emphasizes fulfillment of parental responsibilities and family self sufficiency. CDR provides all family support services in the family’s primary language, recognizing and honoring cultural preferences and traditions.
Always Accepting Applications
Head Start will accept applications throughout the year and enroll children as spaces become available. Parents with kids who have disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Early Head Start Requirements
Before starting the Early Head Start program application, please review the eligibility requirements below.
- Families living in Ventura County
- Expectant mothers and children up to age 3
- Priority is given to families whose income falls within Federal Poverty Guidelines
Eligibility is based on income, age of child and family size. The documents highlighted below must be attached to expedite processing:
A) Child’s Birth Certificate
B) Proof of Family’s Gross Annual Income: 1040’s, W-2’s for every employment held, Income documentation of the last 12 months, Current Notice of Action for Cal Works/TANF Cash Aid
C) Child’s current Immunization Record.
D) For expected mothers, Proof of Pregnancy with expected delivery date.
Early Head Start Application
Download the application form below, fill it out, and bring or mail it with the required copies of documents to the nearest Head Start Center or the CDR Main office located at: 221 E. Ventura Blvd. Oxnard, CA 93036. (805) 485-7878. Fax: (805) 278-0485. TDD (805) 278-0855. For a seamless application experience, please contact us for guidance to ensure your application is complete and processed without any issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Head Start/Early Head Start Waiting List and Enrollment Application. The documents highlighted below must be attached to expedite processing:
A) Child’s Birth Certificate
B) Proof of Family’s Gross Annual Income: 1040’s, W-2’s for every employment held, Income documentation of the last 12 months, Current Notice of Action for Cal Works/TANF Cash Aid
C) Child’s current Immunization Record.
D) For expected mothers, Proof of Pregnancy with expected delivery date.
Take or mail application with attached copies of documents to the nearest Head Start Center or the CDR Main office located at: 221 E. Ventura Blvd. Oxnard, CA 93036. (805) 485-7878. Fax: (805) 278-0485. TDD (805) 278-0855. To download a Head Start/Early Head Start Application or for locations of Head Start Centers, visit our website at www.cdrv.org
Head Start and Early Head Start programs welcome and encourage parents and families to get involved in their child’s education. You can find out more about getting involved by contacting the CDR Head Start department.
Eligibility is based on income, age of child and family size.
Child Development Resources also administers the Resource and Referral Programs. Contact this department to obtain assistance in locating other child care and/or preschool programs and services in your community. Contact them directly at 1(805) 485-7878 Ext. 1512.
Good news! When available, Head Start programs can enroll a limited number of children whose families are above the income guidelines. Complete the application process to be considered.
Yes, we do! We know that all children deserve Head Start. Our agencies are required to enroll a certain number of students with an individual education plan (IEP) or an individual family service plan (IFSP).
Yes, if any parent or sibling are receiving Supplemental Security Income family is income eligible. No other form of income documentation is required.
Yes, Families experiencing Homelessness are eligible, regardless of family income. Contact your local Head Start Center to find out more about eligibility.
Yes, children in foster care are eligible, regardless of family income. Contact your local Head Start Center to find out more about eligibility.
Yes, Families receiving TANF/CalWORKs are eligible, regardless of family income. Contact your local Head Start Center to find out more about eligibility.
Eligibility is based on family income, family size, and age of your child. Early Head Start is for children from birth to age three and pregnant mothers. Head Start is for children ages three to five years.
Click here to find the Head Start programs near you! You can also call us directly at 1-805-485-7878 Ext. 470.