In order to retain the Iuka Headstart Center’s federal funding they are in need of many more students, and maybe some help from the community.

Currently, they have 33 children being served by the center, ages 3-5. To keep their federal funding, they need at least 57 kids enrolled, according to center director Barbara McGaha.

There are many children in the community who could be helped by Headstart, but they need to get the word about the program and enroll. 

They need a bus driver to pick up and take kids home. The Headstart day ends about 1:30 p.m. and that is difficult for working parents to accommodate, and find childcare to address the remaining hours.

Children get breakfast, lunch and a snack and can be at “school” at 7:30 a.m.

Headstart is free for students, and they can enroll throughout the year. The highly qualified and experienced staff can help with special needs and disabilities, as well as free speech therapy, mental health, and other needs. There are income limits, and the Headstart folks can help you with all that. Call for an enrollment appointment - 662-423-5410. 

Plan to bring the child’s birth certificate and immunization form, social security card, Medicaid or other insurance card, and income verification, like paycheck stubs or a W2 form.