Give Your Child a Strong Start in Life
Early Head Start is a no-cost, federally funded program that helps infants, toddlers, and expectant families build the foundation for lifelong learning and success.
What is Early Head Start?
A program designed to nurture your child during their most important years
Early Head Start (EHS) is the only federal program specifically focused on children from birth to age 3 and expectant families. Research shows that 90% of a child's brain develops before age 5—and the most critical period is from birth to age 3.
EHS provides comprehensive support to help your child reach important developmental milestones while strengthening your entire family. Services are delivered through quality childcare at centers like Nana's Cozy Corner, where your child receives nurturing care in a safe, home-like environment.
Why it matters: Children who participate in Early Head Start show improved social-emotional skills, better language development, and stronger parent-child bonds. These benefits last well into elementary school and beyond.
Who Qualifies?
Early Head Start serves families who need it most
Infants & Toddlers
Families with children from birth to age 3 (up to age 2.5 at enrollment) who meet income guidelines
Expectant Families
Pregnant women can enroll at any point during pregnancy and continue services after birth
Public Assistance Recipients
Families receiving SSI, TANF, or SNAP automatically qualify regardless of income
Families in Transition
Children in foster care or families experiencing homelessness are eligible regardless of income
Low-Income Families
Families earning at or below the Federal Poverty Level qualify (see income chart below)
Children with Special Needs
EHS actively welcomes and supports children with disabilities or developmental delays
2025 Income Guidelines
Does your family qualify? Check the chart below
Service Area Zip Codes
53205
53209
53210
53212
53216
Early Head Start services through Nana's Cozy Corner are available to families in these Milwaukee zip codes.
What Your Family Receives
Comprehensive, wraparound support at no cost to you
Ready to Get Started?
Find out if your family qualifies for free Early Head Start services at Nana's Cozy Corner.
For Early Head Start eligibility questions, contact WECA: 608-729-1072 or CClark@wisconsinearlychildhood.org
No commitment required ~ We'll contact you within 24 - 48 hours.