Adapting Head Start for Homeless Families

摘要

Although approximately one quarter of Head Start agencies reported serving homeless children, they are still an underserved population. The study examines the ability of Head Start programs to meet the needs of families in homeless shelters, and identifies ways Head Start could adapt to better meet the needs of homeless families. The study is based on telephone interviews with 33 child development providers across the country, and site visits to three sites (Seattle, WA; Bucks County, PA; and Chicago, IL). The study found that barriers to serving homeless clients in Head Start can be grouped into three categories: Head Start regulations and performance standards, funding and resources, and grantees' needs for technical assistance. Among the regulations and performance standards which impede service to homeless families are average daily attendance standards, parental participation requirements, and regulations concerning immunizations and health screenings. Head Start staff need technical assistance in several areas, including infant and toddler care, interagency coordination, and classroom environment and developmental curriculum. Finally, policy actions that could alleviate these problems are outlined.