Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) Head Start programs serve families with poverty level incomes at five NAEYC*-accredited sites in some of Chicago’s most economically disadvantaged neighborhoods (Humboldt Park, North Austin, Rogers Park, Uptown and West Englewood). Head Start is a federally funded program. LSSI’s Head Start sites also receive additional funds from city and state sources.

LSSI’s Head Start programs are for children aged 3-5 years old, with or without disabilities. Programming is designed to develop students’ social skills and school readiness. The curriculum covers the ABCs, numbers, shapes, colors, counting, computers, early math, reading and science, table manners, nutrition, tooth-brushing, socialization skills and much more. The program includes:

• half-day or full-day sessions;
• a daily hot meal (either breakfast or lunch) and a snack; and
• social services, such as health and dental screening; special needs assessment; hearing and vision tests; and referrals to community programs.

Through LSSI’s Bonding with Books literacy initiative, each child will receive one free book every month to build an at-home library. The monthly classroom theme is also based on the book and expanded through exciting classroom activities and enjoyable field trips.

*National Association for the Education of Young Children

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Child Care

LSSI also provides full-day child care for 2-year-olds of working parents — or those who are attending school — at Winthrop Children’s Center in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood. The goal is to provide developmentally appropriate care to children and supportive services to their families. LSSI’s child care services are publicly funded (a co-payment is assessed based on family income).

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