SNAP Eligibility for Head Start Services

The interpretation of “public assistance” in Sec. 645 of the Head Start Act now includes receipt of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This policy change allows Head Start programs to reach families better and coordinate benefit programs so that families eligible for multiple programs can more easily participate in services for which they qualify.

ACF-IM-HS-22-03 Head Start Categorical Eligibility for Families Eligible for SNAP

Upon issuance, this Information Memorandum allows programs to determine SNAP recipients as categorically eligible for Head Start services.

SNAP as Public Assistance for Head Start Eligibility FAQs

Read answers to FAQs about the guidance that adds the receipt of SNAP benefits to Head Start eligibility criteria.

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SNAP for Head Start Eligibility Flyer

This flyer is a recruitment tool for programs to share with families and community partners about Head Start eligibility and services for SNAP recipients.

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Biden-Harris Administration Officials Celebrate Move to Make Enrollment in Head Start Programs Easier for Families

Read this press release to learn more about how the receipt of SNAP benefits qualifies families for Head Start services.

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Head Start Eligibility Verification Form

Programs may use the Head Start Eligibility Verification Form as a component of the eligibility determination record alongside copies of documents or statements deemed necessary to verify eligibility.

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Adding SNAP Benefits to Head Start Categorical Eligibility

Watch this webinar to hear OHS leadership discuss the addition of receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefits to the Head Start eligibility criteria.

Eligibility

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