Child development and family support services are available for children ages 3 to 5 who are low income or meet eligibility requirements and reside in East Multnomah County outside Portland Public Schools. Services include comprehensive preschool and child care programs, home visits, parent and child activities, health screenings, meals, transportation, opportunities to volunteer, and parent involvement activities. Some programs operate year-round.

Part Day Head Start offers part day preschool four days per week, along with home visits for families of preschoolers (ages 3-5) in locations throughout mid- and East Multnomah County. Many families are eligible for bus transportation.

Home-based Head Start offers weekly home visits and opportunities for socialization days to families who are homeless or have other difficulties attending a center-based classroom program.

Full Day Head Start has a limited number of child care slots for eligible families who are working or attending MHCC full time. (see Full Day Programs).