What are the eligibility requirements for New Directions Early Head Start?

Eligibility for an Early Head Start program may be based on:

• The age of the child
• The family’s income level and the applicable Head Start poverty and eligibility guidelines
• Categorical eligibility, including foster care, homelessness, participation in qualifying public assistance programs (SNAP, SSI, or TANF), or a child with a diagnosed disability

What documentation is required for enrollment?

Proof of the Child’s Age

One of the following documents is required:

• Child’s birth certificate
• Hospital card
• Medicaid card
• Passport or visa

Categorical Eligibility

Families applying through categorical eligibility must provide one of the following:

• Documentation of foster care
• A completed NDEHS Homelessness Verification Form
• SNAP verification
• TANF verification
• SSI verification

Disability Documentation

Families applying based on a child’s diagnosed disability should provide available documentation, such as:

• A medical diagnosis
• An Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP)
• An Individualized Education Program (IEP)
• Other documentation from a qualified medical or developmental provider

Income Eligibility

Families applying based on income must provide one of the following:

• Individual income-tax form
• W-2 forms from all places of employment
• A letter documenting Public Assistance, Child Support, or SSI
• Pay stubs
• Bank statements documenting direct deposits
• NDEHS Zero Income Documentation completed by a family member providing support

Does the home visitor come to our house?

Home visits typically take place in the family’s home. In some circumstances, a visit may be held in another agreed-upon community location, such as a public library. Families should discuss location options with their Child and Family Specialist.

We are temporarily living in a shelter. Can we still apply?

Yes. Families living in temporary housing or a shelter may still apply for New Directions Early Head Start. Complete the referral form and a program representative will contact you. Families may also speak with their Child and Family Specialist about available housing resources and support.

Where are the NDEHS centers located?

NDEHS partners with three centers located in Newark and Wilmington:

• University of Delaware Early Learning Center
• Hilltop Lutheran Neighborhood Center
• Neighborhood House Inc. Early Learning Center

Can NDEHS centers accommodate special dietary or medical needs?

Families must provide their Child and Family Specialist with documentation from the child’s physician describing allergies, dietary restrictions, or medical conditions as soon as a diagnosis is made. A care plan must then be developed outlining the physician’s instructions and the procedures staff should follow.

Is transportation available to and from the child care center?

NDEHS does not provide transportation to or from its partner child care centers.