Overview
Benton-Franklin Head Start is a nonprofit organization providing free, comprehensive early childhood education and family support to income-eligible children and families across Benton and Franklin Counties. Benton-Franklin Head Start offers services through Early Head Start, ECEAP, and Head Start programs. For families of young children with disabilities or developmental delays, Head Start’s inclusive classroom model is one of the most accessible entry points into early childhood services, and it’s free.
Who It’s For
Benton-Franklin Head Start serves children ages 3–5 who are not yet eligible for kindergarten, and families who meet federal poverty guidelines based on household income and family size. Head Start also prioritizes children in foster care, children experiencing homelessness, and children with disabilities regardless of income level. Early Head Start serves children from birth to age 3.
What They Offer
Benton-Franklin Head Start and ECEAP are designed around the “whole child”, which means addressing educational, health, social-emotional, and family needs together, not in isolation.
- Head Start Preschool – Full early childhood education program for ages 3–5, including classroom instruction, health screenings, nutrition, and family support
- Early Head Start – Services for children birth to 35 months, including home visits, center-based care, and family support
- ECEAP (Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program) – Washington State’s pre-kindergarten program, free for eligible families, focused on school readiness
- Special Education Inclusion – Head Start provides special education services in an inclusive classroom setting. Goals from a child’s IEP and Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) are incorporated into the child’s Head Start individual education plan. Children with IEPs receive services in the least restrictive environment alongside their peers.
- Mental Health Support – Ongoing mental health training and support to ensure high-quality, safe, and wellness-focused classroom environments
- Family Services – Family services staff provide resources and referrals, crisis intervention, opportunities for community involvement, and support to develop literacy. Parents also have a formal voice in program planning through the Policy Council.
Locations
Benton-Franklin Head Start operates at multiple sites across Benton and Franklin Counties, including Kennewick, Richland, Pasco, and Benton City. Contact the main office to find the site nearest you.
How to Get Started
- Contact Benton Franklin Head Start to ask about enrollment and eligibility for the current or upcoming school year.
- For children with disabilities or developmental concerns, specifically ask about their inclusive classroom option and IEP coordination.
- If your child already has an IFSP or IEP through ESD 123 or another provider, share that documentation, Head Start will incorporate those goals into their program.
Phone: (509) 943-2450 (Marcus Whitman / Richland) | (509) 873-3138 (East Kennewick) | (509) 544-9446 (MLK Center / Pasco)
Visit Benton Franklin Head Start | Enrollment Information | Contact & Locations
