Parent and Child Together (PACT)
for West Central Illinois

300 S. Capitol, PO Box 231
Mt. Sterling, IL 62353
217-773-3903
Fax: 217-773-3906
E-Mail: sedison@pactheadstart.com

Office Hours:

8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday thru Friday

Mission/Purpose:

To provide a comprehensive program of educational, health, and social services to children and their families, which promotes self esteem and self sufficiency.

Services Provided:

Early Head Start (pregnant monthers-three yr. olds) and Head Start (3 and r yr. olds) - Home Based Option:
Teachers visit assigned families once a week for 90 minutes. The parent is viewed as the primary educator of the child, using the Parents As Teachers (PAT) curriculum. Home Based services are supplemented by classroom socialization activities held twice a month for three hours. Parent groups meet regularly during which time parents may have educational speakers on a variety of topics or may participate in "hands-on" workshops. Parents are encouraged to volunteer for the program in various capacities. Home Based services are available in all eight counties that PACT serves.

Early Head Start and Head Start - Center Based Options:
PACT Head Start centers are located in Pittsfield, Beardstown, Macomb, Carthage and Camp Point. Classrooms services range from 3 1/2 hour sessions to full day services. Family Advocates provide social service and information on health needs/services in the home to families on a regular basis. Parent groups meet regularly and parents are encouraged to volunteer in the classroom, on field trips, and as bus monitors.

Child Care Program:
Macomb PACT provides child care in collaboration with Western Illinois University & the Department of Human Services. The Macomb PACT/WIU Child Care Center is open to children of parents who are either Western Illinois University staff or students or PACT staff. After certain deadlines, a small percentage of the general population may be enrolled. This center serves children between the ages of 6 weeks and 6 years of age.

Area Served:

Head Start Programs (3 and 4 yr olds):
Rural Adams, Brown, Cass, Hancock, McDonough, Schuyler, Scott, and Pike Counties

Early Head Start Programs (pregnant mothers - 3 yr olds):
Rural Adams, Brown, Cass, Hancock, McDonough, Schuyler, Scott, and Pike Counties

Fee:

None

Eligibility:

Enrollment in Head Start or Early Head Start is based on families meeting limited income guidelines. At least 10% of all enrollments are reserved for children with special needs. Pregnant mothers through 4 yr. olds (Not attending kindergarten) are eligible. Potential applicants may use the toll free number: 1-800-443-7228. Preliminary information will be taken over the phone and then forwarded to the Teacher or Family Advocate in that area. The Teacher or Family Advocate will make an appointment to complete an application for Head Start. Applications are accepted throughout the year. Services in EHS and HS are provided at no cost to enrolled families.

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