Cayuga/Seneca Community Action Agency's Head Start program is a federally funded, comprehensive preschool program for low income children ages 3-5 and their families residing in Cayuga County. The approach to services includes a nurturing learning environment that supports the healthy growth and development of each child in the context of the child's family, culture and community.

Our program's philosophy recognizes that the key to the educational success of the children is the involvement of parents in their child's educational development, now and in their future educational experiences. Its success is based on the premise that parents are their children's first teachers.

Health services, nutrition services, disability services, education and family support services are provided at no charge. Transportation is also provided. Eligibility for Head Start is based on the federal poverty guidelines; a family of four can make up to $20,650 and be eligible for the program.

The Head Start program has sites in Auburn, Moravia and is opening a new site in Southern Cayuga. Program options include full day, part day and home base. In addition, the agency has partnered with the Auburn Enlarged School District and Moravia School District to offer collaborative Head Start Universal Pre-Kindergarten services in Auburn and Moravia.

I would like to take a moment to highlight Brenda Leader of Conquest, a single grandmother who has been the primary caregiver of Matthew, 4, since he was 8 months old. Matthew is a recent graduate of Head Start and will be transitioning to kindergarten in September. Leader also has an 11-year-old foster child. Leader is disabled and receives SSI.

According to the 2005 American Communities Survey, 2.5 million grandchildren are living with their grandparents as the primary caregivers. When parents are not able to raise their children, it is often grandparents who step in to assume this responsibility.

Many take on this role to “keep the family together” rather than have their grandchildren grow up in the foster care system.

“I looked forward to being a grandparent, having my grandchild visit me and then go home,” Leader said. “It is very different being the primary caretaker versus being a grandparent. As a grandparent suddenly left with a grandchild to raise, it can be very challenging to get help.

“There are financial issues, legal issues and emotional issues to face. The amount of paper work and the legal system can be overwhelming at times and often you don't have the energy to chase after a preschooler. I expected to enjoy retirement and grandchildren in the traditional way.

“Matthew being separated at such a young age from his parents has had detachment and bonding issues. It can take a long time for trust to grow in a child. He asks questions, ‘Does my mommy love me?' ‘Why am I here with you, Nana?' I have found counseling very beneficial in answering his questions and helping him to adjust.

“My greatest joy is watching the firsts, the milestones - his first steps and words, going on the bus to school and his smile makes it all worth it. I am looking forward to watching him grow into a healthy adult who will be able to recognize his blessings and help others.”

The Head Start program enabled Leader's grandson to have a preschool experience that she could not otherwise afford. It also gave her time to get medical treatments she needed, time to access services and some respite time from full-time parenting.

Cayuga/Seneca Community Action Agency salutes Brenda Leader and her dedication to her family as well as all the grandparents in our community raising their grandchildren.

For further information on Head Start Services, contact Terry DeFelice.

Terry DeFelice is the Head Start director. She may be contacted at 252-0038 ext. 202