Ruth O. Benner Head Start Center

Head Start and Early Head Start are comprehensive child development, health and social service programs for low-income families. Since 1965, Head Start has been serving the needs of disadvantaged infants, children, and pregnant women across America.

Over 1400 children, from prenatal through age 5, are enrolled in Community Action’s programs each year throughout Ramsey County. Options include full-day, half-day, therapeutic, and inclusion classrooms, and home-visiting programs. Families who meet our eligibility requirements and families with children with special needs are encouraged to apply.

The prenatal to age 3 program, Early Head Start, offers a home-based design for families. Early Head Start Home Visitors meet regularly with parents and children to nurture child development and parenting skills. Families who qualify for childcare assistance may also choose full-day, center-based enhanced childcare for children ages six weeks to five years.
Head Start children between the ages of 3 to 5 attend center-based programming. Classes are offered in either half-day or full-day options at centers conveniently located throughout Ramsey County. Eight centers operate half-day classes, 4 days a week from September through late May. A full-day, full-year option is also available at the Bigelow Head Start Center, or through partnership contracts with community childcare facilities.