What is Early Head Start?
Durham Early Head Start (DEHS) is a federally-funded, free, and comprehensive child development and family support program for low-income expectant women and families with infants and toddlers age birth to 3. Families participate through two program models: intensive home visiting and full day high-quality center-based child care. Currently, DEHS serves 120 children through center-based care and 36 children through home visiting, for a total enrollment of 156.
All families receive high-quality, comprehensive services, including: education; health, dental, and nutritional aid; housing assistance and parent education; mental health screenings; and early intervention.
The Partnership collaborates with community partners to serve Durham’s most vulnerable children and families: Chapel Hill Training-Outreach Project oversees the daily operation of program services; the Center for Child & Family Health provides home visiting services; and local child care centers provide center-based care.
Center-Based Services: for families who demonstrate need for child care services
- Children receive 10-hour, full-year child care in one of our partnering centers.
- Early Head Start teachers and staff provide a nurturing, stimulating and individualized learning environment.
- Family Service Coordinators meet individually with parents to provide information, resources and support.
- Regular attendance is expected.
Transportation is not provided to child care centers (bus passes are available).