SNAP as Public Assistance for Head Start Eligibility – The Office of Head Start recently announced families who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are now eligible to apply for Head Start/Early Head Start services.

This policy change, which went into effect on April 21, 2022, allows Head Start programs to reach families better, minimize the burden on families seeking public assistance, and coordinate benefit programs so that families eligible for one program can more easily participate in other services for which they qualify.

Research has shown that SNAP households with young children have equivalent level of need to families currently receiving Head Start services. The majority of households with young children who receive SNAP benefits have incomes below 100% of poverty.

In addition to TANF and SSI, programs now consider SNAP as “public assistance” for purposes of determining eligibility. The inclusion of SNAP benefits as public assistance will expand the pool of eligible participants in Head Start programs for these households.

If you receive SNAP benefits, you are now eligible to apply for Luzerne County Head Start’s early childhood education program.

LCHS is currently enrolling expectant families and children ages 0-5 in Head Start & Early Head Start. To begin an application, click HERE or call 570.829.6231 or 800.551.5829.