Head Start & Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program

Head Start & Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program is a preschool in Longview, Washington, offering federally and state-funded early childhood programs for income-eligible families. The program serves children ages 3 to 5 through Head Start and Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) initiatives, as well as pregnant women, infants, and toddlers through Early Head Start. Services include part-day preschool classes three or four days a week, lasting 3.5 hours, running from September through May or June. Home Base Early Head Start provides year-round home visits and support services for families from pregnancy through a child’s third birthday. The program emphasizes healthy development, school readiness, and family self-sufficiency, with applications accepted throughout the year. It operates at multiple locations across Cowlitz County, including centers in Longview, Kelso, Castle Rock, and Kalama. With a 4.80 rating based on verified reviews, the program is recognized for its commitment to early learning and family support.

The program is structured around a comprehensive approach to child development, combining classroom instruction with family engagement and home-based services. It is designed to meet the needs of low-income families, foster children, and children at risk, ensuring access to early education regardless of economic background. Services are delivered through a network of community-based centers, with a focus on building strong foundations for lifelong learning and well-being. The program operates under the guidance of a dedicated team, with a mission to support children and families through education, advocacy, and community partnerships.

Located on 20th Avenue in Longview, the program’s main center sits just a short walk from Northlake Elementary School and the Nutty Narrows Squirrel Bridge, with Mark Morris High School and the Amos Peters Squirrel Statue also within a quarter-mile radius. The site is near several historic and cultural landmarks, including the Oregon Territory memorial and The Monticello Convention memorial, reflecting the community’s rich heritage.

As a federally and state-funded initiative, the program stands as a vital resource for early childhood development in the Longview area, serving families who might otherwise lack access to quality preschool education. Its long-standing presence and consistent service delivery underscore its role as a trusted institution in nurturing young learners and supporting families across Cowlitz County.