LBJ&C Head Start Fights Against Regional Food Insecurity
LBJ&C Head Start is utilizing the Child and Adult Care Food Program to provide daily hot meals to hundreds of children across the Upper Cumberland. Head Start Director Penny Meadows said the organization serves 880 children across 20 centers in the region. Meadows said the program provides breakfast, lunch, and a snack each day that […]
Head Start Funding Not Impacted By Government Shutdown
Though funded by the federal government, local Head Start Programs will be not be impacted by the ongoing government budget impasse. LBJ&C Head Start offers free education programs for children between the ages of three and five. Director Penny Meadows said programs in all 12 counties will not be affected. “LBJ&C’s fiscal year is May […]
UC Head Start Reimbursement Program Keeps Meals Free
The LBJ&C Head Start Programs offering children and some families in need free meals thanks to a reimbursement program. The Child and Adult Food Care Program reimburses Head Start for meals given to children. Director Penny Meadows said the program feeds kids nutrient-dense meals they may not get elsewhere. Meadows said all of the meals […]
UC Head Start Officials Worry About Federal Budget Cuts
LBJ&C Head Start officials said funding for this year is set, but federal spending cuts are a long-term concern. The federally-funded program provides free early childhood education services to low income families. LBJ&C Director Penny Meadows said Head Start needs funding to stay the same or increase so it can continue to help people across […]
Head Start Signups Underway; Aids Kids And Families
Signups for the Upper Cumberland Head Start Program are underway for the 2025-26 school year. Head Start Director Penny Meadows said the program gives three to five year-old children a boost in early education. Participants are given a meal and lessons on subjects like science and math. Meadows said the program can be tailored to […]
UC Head Start Set To Apply For Early Head Start Program
LBJ&C Head Start Director Penny Meadows said she hopes to lower age requirements for Head Start in the next year. Meadows said a nationwide competition will open this fall. Meadows said she expects the competition will be fierce. She said she believes the region will get early Head Start in the Upper Cumberland because of […]
Head Start Numbers Down Across UC; Federal Eligibility Also Changed
Head Start numbers are down in the Upper Cumberland with a new school year more than one month old. LBJ&C Head Start Director Penny Meadows said 880 students are enrolled in Head Start centers across the Upper Cumberland, and she has some on a waiting list. Meadows said the interest in Head Start is down. […]
