Written by Jenny Lewis, Head Start Director of Centers and Administration
The Green Hills Head Start (GHHS) program is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and serves families throughout Caldwell, Daviess, Grundy, Harrison, Mercer, Linn, Livingston, Sullivan, and Putnam counties. The grant is awarded to North Central Missouri College to serve pregnant women and children ages 0-5 via center-based or home-based options. PreK center locations include Bethany, Brookfield, Milan, and Trenton. Infant and Toddler/PreK centers are located in Chillicothe and Unionville. Home Visitors serve families throughout the nine-county area with weekly hour-and-a-half visits and a playgroup twice a month. All our sites and locations operate four days a week.
The vision of GHHS is to serve children and families first by helping families create positive home environments. We empower our families to become more self-sufficient, trauma-informed, and positive role models for their children and community.
Enrollment selection is in accordance with federal regulations and is based upon the child’s age and household income. Families can also qualify if they are homeless, receive SNAP or SSI, or if the child is in foster care, kinship care, or a ward of the state. Children with documented disabilities are also prioritized for services. Once a child is selected, the child and their families are eligible to receive all services offered by the program, including:
Nutrition: Healthy breakfast, lunch, and snack are provided that meet federal nutrition guidelines. We also provide education to families about healthy eating habits, meal planning, and the importance of balanced nutrition for children.
Health: Head Start ensures that children receive essential health services. This includes developmental screenings, vision and hearing tests, and referrals for medical or dental care if needed. Staff work with families to ensure children stay up to date on immunizations and receive routine checkups. By addressing health needs early, Head Start helps prevent issues that could interfere with learning and development.
Family Engagement: Family involvement is a core component of Head Start services. Parents are encouraged to participate in classroom activities, workshops, and decision-making committees. Parents are also offered support services such as parenting education, job training referrals, and assistance with setting personal or educational goals.
Social and Emotional Support: Head Start places strong emphasis on children’s emotional well-being. Teachers and specialists help children learn how to manage emotions, build relationships, and develop self-regulation skills. When necessary, mental health professionals may work with families and staff to address behavioral or emotional concerns.
Disability Services: Head Start ensures that children with disabilities receive appropriate support. Programs collaborate with specialists to provide individualized education plans and therapy services.
Applications are accepted year-round for GHHS. All locations are currently taking applications for the 2026-2027 school year. Contact your local Head Start center to schedule a time to complete an application.
If your business, club, or organization is interested in learning more about GHHS, staff would welcome the opportunity to come visit with you. Please visit our website at www.greenhillsheadstart.org or call (660) 359-2214 for more information.
Photo: Jenny Lewis