Clay County Head Start Center

About

Program Overview
Institute of Community Services (ICS) Head Start in Clay County provides free, federally funded early childhood education, health, and family development services. Operating out of centers in West Point, Mississippi, the program promotes school readiness and family self-sufficiency through comprehensive early learning initiatives:
Early Head Start (Infants & Toddlers): Full-day center-based care for infants and toddlers (ages 8 weeks to 36 months) and pregnant mothers. Offers age-appropriate early learning, individualized schedules, free USDA-approved meals, and basic infant supplies like diapers and formula during program hours.
Head Start Preschool (Ages 3 to 5): Classroom-based early education for 3- and 4-year-olds designed to build academic, social-emotional, and physical readiness for kindergarten. Emphasizes language and literacy, basic math, science, and social skills.
Comprehensive Health & Special Needs Support: Coordinates free developmental screenings, vision/hearing checks, dental and medical referrals, and mental health consultations. Fully includes children with disabilities through individualized education (IEP) and care plans.
Family & Community Services: Provides parents with dedicated caseworkers to assist with setting family goals, job and education referrals, emergency community aid, and parenting classes.

Essential details

Who is eligible

This program is designed for pregnant mothers, infants, toddlers, and preschool children (up to age 5) from low-income families residing in Clay County. Automatic categorical eligibility applies to children in foster care, families receiving public assistance (TANF, SSI, or SNAP), and families experiencing homelessness.