Early Head Start With the reauthorization of the Head Start program in 1994, Congress established a new program for low-income families with infants and toddlers and pregnant women called Early Head Start (EHS). In creating this program, Congress acted upon evidence from research and practice which illustrates that early intervention through high quality programs enhances children's physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development; enables parents to be better caregivers and teachers to their children; and helps parents meet their own goals, including economic independence. Such programs answer an undeniable need. The EHS program on Maui provides early, continuous, intensive and comprehensive services to pregnant women and very young children and their families. The EHS home-based program offers weekly home visits and twice monthly group activities. Parental services are provided to expectant mothers, promoting healthy pregnancies and supportive post partum care for the parent and child. The Home-Based Program Specialist and parent work together to promote the child's healthy growth and development. Enrolled families participate in group socialization activities twice a month. The Home-Based program serves pregnant women and children up to the age of three. HOME-BASED Program serves pregnant women and children up to the age of three and offers weekly home visits and twice monthly group activities. Parental services are provided to expectant mothers, promoting healthy pregnancies and supportive post partum care for the parent and child. The Home-Based Program Specialist and parent work together to promote the child's healthy growth and development. Enrolled families participate in group socialization activities twice a month. CENTER-BASED On Maui parents can participate in a center-based child development program to assist in promoting their child's preschool readiness. An EHS Caregiver works closely with families, serving as a support and resource. Center-based program options are full-day, full-year. Income-eligible families receive low or no-cost services. Applications for children with disabilities are encouraged. The program is funded by the Federal Government and contributions from donors. To obtain an application form or volunteer to help in the childcare center please contact Gail Raikes, Program Manager at 808-242-0900 or via e-mail: gail@mfss.org.