Southern 7 Head Start (S7HS) is celebrating October as Head Start Awareness Month, an annual observance that began in 1982 under President Ronald Reagan.
The initiative highlights the lasting impact of Head Start, a federally funded program that has helped over 39 million children nationwide since it was established in 1965.
Head Start supports income-eligible families by providing comprehensive child development services for children ages birth to five, preparing them for kindergarten and beyond.
Throughout the month, S7HS will host various activities at its centers, engaging children and families in learning about the program’s history and its benefits.
According to Shawnna Rhine, S7HS Community Outreach Coordinator, the program offers much more than day care.
In addition to promoting kindergarten readiness, Head Start provides health, dental, and developmental screenings, as well as educational activities that nurture social and cognitive growth.
Families also benefit from access to mental health services, parent engagement training, and resources such as the WIC Supplemental Nutrition Program.
S7HS operates in the lower seven counties of Illinois, offering both Head Start (ages 3-5) and Early Head Start (ages 6 weeks-3 years), with full-day options and a home-based alternative.
For more details, contact Sharity Gaddis at 618-634-2297 ex. 971127 or visit Southern 7's website.
