Supporting Families as a Head Start Provider

Securing permanent housing is a significant milestone for a family and can serve as the foundation for addressing many underlying challenges.  However, to ensure that families not only stabilize but also flourish, it is essential to pair this achievement with additional support services.

Alleviating housing instability frees up mental and emotional space, allowing individuals to focus on improving other aspects of their lives.  For example, Head Start providers can assist in resolving secondary issues, such as employment status, now that a parent’s primary concern of housing insecurity has been resolved.  Services that families may benefit from could include assistance in interviewing and crafting resumes, financial literacy sessions, nutritional education, and more. It is vital that Head Start sites continue to support families beyond the initial provision of housing to ensure their greatest chances of success.

For many parents, this may be their first experience as renters, making it critical for Head Start to thoroughly prepare them for this new responsibility.  One of the most valuable resources offered by HSOH is the tenant manual. Aiming to guide families through each stage of the HSOH process, covering topics such as what is permissible with a  Section 8 voucher, how to address maintenance concerns, being a responsible tenant, maintaining a safe home, and handling emergencies, among many other topics. We strongly recommend that sites introduce this manual to families as soon as they receive a voucher, ensuring they have the necessary information for a successful tenancy. 

This manual also provides an opportunity for Head Start staff and families to set goals together, such as budgeting a specific amount each month. These goals can be documented in the manual's budget section, with regular meetings scheduled to monitor progress. This interactive approach aligns with our commitment to providing ongoing and comprehensive support for HSOH families.