WASHINGTON, D.C. — Maine Head Start programs have been awarded a total of $2,650,659 to support low-income families during the COVID-19 pandemic through the CARES Act, according to a news release. 

Head Start was established in 1965 to promote school readiness and provide a comprehensive array of health, nutritional, and social services to eligible four- and five-year-old preschoolers and their families.  Head Start services include early learning, health, and family well-being. 

The funding, per the release, will help ensure students continue to have a strong foundation to grow and succeed as well as be provided key educational tools and resources, access to health meals and access to health screeings.