CDI HS prepares for Head Start transition

In a letter to parents, Community Development Institute Head Start (CDI HS) confirmed that West Central Missouri Community Action Agency (WCMCAA) will no longer receive federal funding to provide Head Start services in Bates, Cass, Cedar, Henry, St. Clair, and Vernon Counties after June 30. “Beginning on July 1, 2019 Community Development Institute Head Start (CDI HS) will begin providing Head Start/Early Head Start services in this area on an interim basis.” They are hopeful the transition will occur with “minimal disruption of services to children and families.”

The letter continued, describing their role as being “to provide services to children and families until a replacement grantee is selected by the federal Office of Head Start.” The process could take several months and CDI HS plays no role in the selection process.

According to the Office of Head Start at HHS Administration for Children and Families (OHS ACF), CDI HS has provided interim services to over 230 programs since they became the interim provider for OHS in 2000.

When asked how the use of an interim agency will affect current staff and if staff concerns about future employment were realistic, OHS ACF explained that CDI HS will depend on qualified local staff. “In order to minimize the break in employment for qualified staff, and to ensure minimal disruption in the services experienced by children and families in these counties, CDI Head Start will coordinate hiring fairs for Head Start and Early Head Start program staff currently employed by West Central Missouri Community Action Agency.”

They went on to say that those current employees who are qualified and pass the required background check are likely to offered employment. They will advertise locally for any vacancies.

CDI HS has provided a toll-free number, 1-855-294-5713, for up-to-date information. Their website, cdiheadstart.org/westmissouri will also provide updated information.