Early Head Start

Early Head Start

Program Type: Early childhood education and family support services for infants and toddlers

Geographic Scope: Available in Tippecanoe, Hendricks, and Morgan Counties in Indiana

Eligibility:

Overview:
Early Head Start is a free program providing early care and education services for infants and toddlers. Families accepted into the program are placed on a waitlist, with wait times varying from as few as two days depending on demand and availability. All families on the waitlist receive invitations to program events throughout the year. After the child reaches six weeks, families in the Pregnant Women's Program are automatically enrolled in one of the two Early Head Start infant-toddler programs.

Contact Information:

How to Apply

1. Schedule an Application Appointment
- Contact Bauer Family Resources to schedule an appointment
- Email: enrollment@bauerfamilyresources.org
- Phone: 1-888-229-9580

2. Prepare Required Documents for Application Appointment:
- Child's Birth Certificate (from the Health Department)
- Proof of Address: Utility bill (gas, water, or electric) or lease
- If utilities or lease are in another person's name, a letter from that person must accompany the bill or lease
- Parent/Guardian's Proof of Income:
- Last two pay stubs or letter from employer AND
- Most recent W2 or income tax return OR last pay stub for previous calendar year
- If Applicable: Documentation of Scholarships/grants, Child Support, TANF, SSI, Employment Letters, Unemployment

3. At Your Application Appointment:
- Share information about your family and learn more about the program
- Provide the required documents listed above

4. After Application Appointment:
- Family is placed on waitlist
- Receive invitations to program events throughout the year
- Notify Bauer if contact information changes

5. Enrollment (once spot becomes available):
- Bauer staff contacts you to determine start date
- Meet with Family Advocate
- Complete required enrollment documents:
- Current physical and shot records for child
- If Applicable: IFSP or IEP from First Steps, GLASS, LAJSSC, or Special Service agencies
- Professional Referral
- Health Insurance Card (Medicaid or other)
- Food Stamp Card
- Proof of custody/guardianship (if not the biological parent)
- Create transition plan for smooth introduction into program

Note: Program services cannot begin until all applicable documents are provided.