Early Head Start enrollment coming soon for 2021!
Early Head Start provides support for parents and free, full-time child care for infants and toddlers in Amherst, Bedford, and Lynchburg.
Enrollment for HumanKind's Early Head Start
November 2020 - Stay Tuned!
Early Head Start is new to our community, and spots will go fast! Apply if you meet the following eligibility:
- Families in Amherst, Bedford, and Lynchburg who have a child under the age of 3.
- Foster children, homeless children, and families receiving public assistance (TANF or SSI), regardless of income.
- Children with documented disabilities may be eligible regardless of income.
- Families who meet income eligibility as determined by Federal Poverty Guidelines (2020):
| Family Size | Family Income |
| 1 | $ 12,760 |
| 2 | $ 17,240 |
| 3 |
$ 21,720 |
| 4 |
$ 26,200 |
| 5 |
$ 30,680 |
| 6 |
$ 35,160 |
| 7 |
$ 39,640 |
| 8 |
$ 44, 120 |
| More than 8 |
Add $4,480 for each additional person |
Enrollment for Early Head Start
Opening November 2020 - Stay Tuned
Frequently Asked Questions
HumanKind’s Early Head Start program will provide tools and resources to parents of children ages 0-3 at home and in our centers (opening 2021) so that they can build a strong foundation for life.
Where is Early Head Start located?
We are in the process of finalizing our 3 locations in the town of Amherst, town of Bedford, and City of Lynchburg. We will update this webpage as addresses are secured.
What does enrolling for 2021 mean?
As soon as our locations are secured and classrooms are ready to open, we will begin providing child care. This could be early as January 2021 in some locations. In the meantime, teachers will provide virtual support and instruction and delivery of diapers, wipes, and materials for children’s activities.
Is it safe for my child to attend child care during a pandemic?
Early Head Start is licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) and meets VDSS’s strictest guidelines for operating child care during COVID-19. If you are uncomfortable with attending child care at this time, you may participate in virtual Early Head Start services.
When is Early Head Start open?
Centers will be open year round, Monday-Friday from 7:30am-5:30pm. Early Head Start instructional hours are 9:00am-3:00pm, and before/after care hours are 7:30am-9:00am and 3:00pm-5:30pm.
What does Early Head Start cost?
Early Head Start is free during the program’s instructional hours of 9:00am-3:00pm. Before/after care is available to families who qualify for Virginia’s Child Care Subsidy Program which may require co-pays. If you would like information about how to apply for Subsidy, let us know. If you do not qualify for subsidy but need before/after care, ask about our before/after care fees.
Is transportation provided to Early Head Start?
No, we do not provide transportation. If this will make it difficult for your family to participate in Early Head Start, please let us know. Your child’s regular attendance is an important part of the program.
How is Early Head Start different than Head Start?
Both Early Head Start and Head Start are federally funded programs that support families with young children. Early Head Start is operated by HumanKind and provides full time, year-round, child care for children 0-3 years of age. Head Start is operated by Lynchburg Community Action Group (LynCAG) and serves children 3-4 years of age. Amherst, Bedford, and Lynchburg public schools serve children 4-5 years of age in their pre-kindergarten programs.
What can I expect when my family applies for Early Head Start?
You will be contacted by one of our Family Engagement Specialists to complete the enrollment process. She will get to know your family, answer any questions you have about the program, and support you through your entire time in the program. You may also be connected with our Health and Disabilities Manager to help get your child’s health and immunization records necessary for enrollment. Once enrolled, your child will be assigned to a classroom of 8 students and 2 teachers. Before your child’s first day, your teacher will schedule a home visit or virtual meeting to get to know you and your family.