Since 1916, Riverbend Head Start & Family Services has been focused on improving the lives of mothers and children in our community. Now the agency serves the entire family through its Head Start and Early Head Start programs Services are provided at NO COST TO THE FAMILY. We serve infants, toddlers, preschoolers and pregnant moms living in Madison County, Illinois. We operate six centers with one in Alton (618.463.5933), one in Bethalto (618.717.0625), one in Collinsville (618.345.9588), one in Edwardsville (618.692.9604) and two in Granite City (North 618.797.1547 or South 618.877.2102). Head Start: Early childhood education program for children ages three to five years old at one of our Head Start centers or in your home. Early Head Start: Home visitors visit pregnant women and families with children under three in their homes each week. To qualify, families must be income eligible, have a child with a diagnosed disability or be involved with the Department of Children and Family Services. To apply you need proof of income for last 12 months and proof of your child's date of birth. Riverbend Head Start & Family Services is a non-profit working to improve the lives of families through our early childhood development program and parenting education. Our mission is simple: to empower children and families to develop positive skills to meet life's challenges. We are committed to preparing your child for kindergarten and so much more. We want your family to be healthy and positioned to succeed in life. This is why we offer the following program services:
Heath
- Physical and dental exams with follow up treatment if necessary
- Nutritious meals and snacks
- Prenatal care
- Nutrition education
Education:
- Individual assessments
- Creative play
- Social skill development
- Learn & Play groups
- Field trips
- Age appropriate child activities
- Introduction to words & numbers
Social Services:
- Identify and link families to community resources
- Empower families to set and achieve goals
- Support families in problem solving
Parent Engagement:
- Support child's education at home
- Build confidence
- Develop leadership skills
- Parent meetings and workshops
- Parents as volunteers
Transportation is provided for most center-based activities, all home-based Learn & Play Groups and field trips.
