Head Start program to continue with modifications

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Action for a Better Community CEO, Jerome Underwood notified staff and families that the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services awarded the non-profit a $17 million grant to continue operating Early Head Start and Head Start in the fall. But the program that has been operating since 1965 under ABC will see some changes.

ABC’s Early Head Start program serving pregnant women, infants, and toddlers 0 to 3 will not be offered this summer. A message posted on ABC’s website points to facility renovations and staff preparation needed for enhanced programs being the reasons behind the lack of services in July and August.

Other program changes or enhancements listed on the agency’s website include a new curriculum, and increased program slots for infants and toddlers when the free program for low-income families resumes September 4, 2024.

ABC will no longer provide Head Start services at its Hudson Avenue location. The two programs are expected to serve 792 women, infants, toddlers, and preschoolers each year.

In May, leaders notified workers they would be laid off at the end of June. ABC was cited for recent failures in meeting federal performance standards related to child safety, employee background checks, and other factors.

Despite those issues, the Office of Head Start approved ABC’s application to continue operating both the Head Start program for three and four-year-old children and the Early Head Start program for the upcoming school year.

More details are expected on Tuesday.

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