HEAD START APPLICATIONS TAKEN

CAPE GIRARDEAU -- The East Missouri Action Agency's Head Start program is taking applications for the 1991-92 program year.

Children must be at least 3 years of age by June 30 in order to qualify, Head Start officials said.

The family must have verification of income, such as a tax form, written statements from employers or documentation showing current status if receiving public assistance, child's birth certificate or hospital record, up-to-date immunization record, and the child's Social Security number.

The Head Start center is located at 260 North Middle. The program serves 60 children. The center operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday and from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.

Head Start provides comprehensive services to low-income families with children, 3 to 5 years of age.

Information about the Head Start program can be obtained by calling 335-4313.

The primary objective of the program is the improvement of the overall developmental process of the child, with emphasis on the prevention of a variety of developmental problems; increasing parents' knowledge of their own children as well as their own knowledge of parenting; and strengthening the family unit.

Head Start officials said these objectives are accomplished through services that include developmental activities, comprehensive health care of young children and their families, nutrition education, social services for the entire family, parent involvement in the program, and assistance to parents in overcoming economic and personal problems.