Head Start — free pre-K for low-income families

Head Start and Early Head Start give children from birth to age 5 a full package of support — preschool education, health screenings, dental care, nutritious meals, and help for families. Parents get involved in running the program alongside staff. It's designed specifically for low-income families who might not otherwise afford quality early childhood services.

About Gulf Coast Community Services Association

Gulf Coast Community Services Association fights poverty and builds self-sufficiency across the Houston region. The organization provides utility assistance, weatherization, workforce development, Head Start education, a…

The program serves families across Harris County, with Gulf Coast Community Services Association running locations in South Main and throughout Houston.

Those early years shape everything that comes after, but quality early childhood programs can be expensive. Head Start levels the playing field by giving kids the health care, nutrition, and education foundation they need to succeed in school and beyond.

Applications are accepted year-round, so families can apply whenever they're ready. Gulf Coast Community Services Association handles the enrollment process and can explain what income levels qualify for the free services.