Two Kansas counties receive $3.7M grant for Head Start program

Rep. Sharice Davids announced Monday that the Department of Health and Human Services has awarded the East Central Kansas Economic Opportunity Corporation’s (ECKAN) Head Start program with a new federal grant.

The $3.7 million will be used to continue providing early education opportunities and family support services to children and families in Anderson and Miami counties.

“Children who participate in Head Start programs receive countless benefits,” Davids said. “They’re healthier, have better social skills and are more likely to graduate high school and achieve further education.”

Data shows that students in early childhood education programs are 25 percent more likely to graduate high school and four times more likely to complete a bachelor’s degree in comparison to non-Head Start students.

Children in Head Start are also healthier and have better social and emotional skills, data shows. In adulthood, statistics show that former Head Start students experience greater economic stability and earn higher wages.

“We’re excited that our refunding application has been approved by the Office of Head Start for the 2026–2027 year,” said Crystal Anderson, CEO of ECKAN. “At ECKAN, we’re proud to continue supporting children and families and helping them thrive.”