New Mexico Head Start
Children, Youth, and Families Department (NM)
What is New Mexico Head Start?
Head Start is a Federal program that promotes the school readiness of children from birth to age five from low-income families by enhancing their cognitive, social, and emotional development. Head Start programs provide a learning environment that supports children's growth in many areas such as language, literacy, and social and emotional development. Head Start emphasizes the role of parents as their child's first and most important teacher. These programs help build relationships with families that support family well-being and many other important areas.
Many Head Start programs also provide Early Head Start, which serves infants, toddlers, and pregnant women and their families who have incomes below the Federal poverty level.
Administration
New Mexico Head Start is administered by Children, Youth, and Families Department (NM).
Program Requirements
Qualification Requirements Last Updated on 2025-03-01
Children from birth to age five from families with low income, according to the Poverty Guidelines published by the Federal government, are eligible for Head Start and Early Head Start services.
Children in foster care, homeless children, and children from families receiving public assistance (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or Supplemental Security Income) are also eligible for Head Start and Early Head Start services regardless of income.
In order to qualify, you must have an annual household income (before taxes) that is below the following amounts:
| Household Size* | Maximum Income Level (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $15,060 |
| 2 | $20,440 |
| 3 | $25,820 |
| 4 | $31,200 |
| 5 | $36,580 |
| 6 | $41,960 |
| 7 | $47,340 |
| 8 | $52,720 |
Head Start programs may enroll children from families that have incomes above the Poverty Guidelines. Pregnant women may also be eligible for Early Head Start.
We strongly recommend you contact the Head Start or Early Head Start in your community to find out about their local requirements for enrolling your child and for further guidance. If there is not a space for you and your child at this time, ask the program to put your family on the waiting list.
Application Details
What is the application process for New Mexico Head Start?
To apply for Head Start and Early Head Start, contact the program serving your community using the Head Start Locator tool below. Your local program will provide the required forms and answer your questions. They will also tell you what documents you should bring with you to apply.
Contact Info
1-866-763-6481