2009

KALAMAZOO COUNTY HEAD START

COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT
Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction .................................................................................................................................................3

Program Overview ....................................................................................................................................................3

Purpose .....................................................................................................................................................................4

Methodology ............................................................................................................................................................4

Section 2: Demographic Profile of Service Area ..........................................................................................................5

Childhood Poverty in Kalamazoo County and Current Head Start Capacity ...........................................................7

Section 3: Other Child Development and Child Care Resources................................................................................10

Section 4: Children with Disabilities ...........................................................................................................................14

Section 5: Characteristics of Head Start Children 2008/09 ........................................................................................16

Section 6: Perceptions of Head Start Parents ............................................................................................................21

Returning Families ..................................................................................................................................................21

Program Options ................................................................................................................................................21

Program Satisfaction ..........................................................................................................................................22

Expressed Needs ................................................................................................................................................23

Head Start Applicants .............................................................................................................................................24

Family Characteristics ........................................................................................................................................24

Program Options ................................................................................................................................................25

Expressed Need ..................................................................................................................................................26

Section 6: Key Informants ...........................................................................................................................................29

Causes of Poverty ...................................................................................................................................................29

Seriousness of Community Issues ..........................................................................................................................31

Availability of Resources ........................................................................................................................................31

Qualitative Data Comparisons ...............................................................................................................................32

Section 7: Community Resources ...............................................................................................................................34

Section 8: Conclusions ................................................................................................................................................42

2
Section 1: Introduction

Program Overview
The Kalamazoo County Head Start (KC-Head Start) Program provides comprehensive child
development services to 626 eligible pre-school children and their families. The ‘core’ Head
Start Program operates the center-based option for 3.5 hours per day, four days a week,
September through early June as a double or single session. KC-Head Start offers full day with
extended hours for forty (40) children, as approved by the Administration for Children and
Families. KC-Head Start defines this model as ‘extended day’ which includes the six-hour, full
day Head Start Program with up to four (4) additional hours to accommodate parents who are
working full time, engaged in furthering their education, participating in training for
employment, and/or other welfare to work activities.

KC-Head Start is the only Head Start grantee serving Kalamazoo County, Michigan. The county is
located in southwestern Michigan, mid-way between Detroit and Chicago. The program serves
the entire county, which includes nine cities and villages and 15 townships. According to the
July 1, 2007 population estimates the two largest cities are Kalamazoo (72,637) and Portage
(46,066). The next most populous areas are Kalamazoo Township (21,916), Oshtemo Township
(20,722), Comstock Township (15,459), and Texas Township (13,517).1 The map below shows
the location of the cities, villages and townships within Kalamazoo County.

1
U.S. Census Bureau, 2007 American Community Survey.

3
Purpose
This 2009 community assessment provides updated demographic data and relevant community
information to identify the strengths, needs and trends that impact on the design and
implementation of the KC-Head Start program. The information from this assessment will be
used in accordance with the Head Start performance standards to determine the program’s
philosophy, set long- and short-range program objectives, determine component services most
needed and program options that will be implemented, determine areas for targeted
recruitment, determine appropriate locations for centers, and set the selection criteria for
children and families.

Methodology
Data were reviewed from a variety of sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau American
Community Survey, Michigan Department of Human Services, Michigan Vital Statistics, KC-Head
Start Program Information Reports, and a recent survey of Head Start parents and applicants.

4
Section 2: Demographic Profile of Service Area

The purpose of this section is to meet the requirement for “the demographic make-up of
Head Start eligible children and their families, including estimated number, geographic
location, and racial and ethnic composition.”

According to the 2007 U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, of Kalamazoo
County’s population of 245,333 was 16% below poverty and 14.6% non-white.2 The City of
Kalamazoo’s population of 72,637 was 36% below poverty and 27.2% non-white.3

County population estimates for 2007 indicate that there are 3,078 infants (under 1 year old),
3,143 one year olds, 3,032 two year olds, 3,337 three year olds and 3,076 four year olds living in
Kalamazoo County.4 For children under 6 in Kalamazoo County the poverty rate was 25.9%.5
For children under 6 in the City of Kalamazoo the poverty rate was 49.1%.6 According to
population estimates, 26% of children under 5 live in the City of Kalamazoo. Applying this
percentage to the estimated number of 3 and 4 year olds, approximately 1,639 live in the City
of Kalamazoo with 4,665 living outside the City of Kalamazoo.

Approximately 2,956 children under the age of three and 2,013 children ages 3 and 4 live below
poverty in Kalamazoo County. The following table shows the calculation method used to
determine this estimate.

Geographic Area Children 0 -2 Children 3-4 Percent of Estimate of Estimate of

children under 6 children under 3 children 3 and 4
in poverty in poverty years old in
poverty
City of Kalamazoo 2407 1639 49.1% 1182 805
Kalamazoo County 6851 4665 25.9% 1774 1208
(minus City of
Kalamazoo total)
Totals 9258 6303 NA 2956 2013

2
U.S. Census Bureau, 2007 American Community Survey.
3
Ibid.
4
National Center for Health Statistics. Estimates of the July 1, 2000 – July 1, 2007, United States resident
population from the Vintage 2007 postcensal series by year, county, age, sex, race and Hispanic origin, prepared
under a collaborative agreement with the U.S. Census Bureau. Available on the Internet from:
http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/about/major/dvs/popbridge/popbridge.htm September 5, 2008.
5
U.S. Census Bureau, 2007 American Community Survey
6
Ibid.
5
The estimated number of Head Start income- and age-eligible children in Kalamazoo County has
increased by 55% from 2005 to 2009 (1,301 to 2,013). There has not been a corresponding
increase in the number of children enrolled in the Great Start School Readiness Program
(GSRP). The following chart shows the change in the estimated number of 3 and 4 year olds in
Kalamazoo County living at or below the poverty guidelines from 2005 to 2009.

Estimates from 2007 indicate that 3% of the county’s residents are Hispanic, 85% are White
(non-Hispanic), 10.3% are African American (non-Hispanic), 2.6% are Asian-Pacific Islander
(non-Hispanic), and 0.3% is Native American (non-Hispanic)7. Estimates from 2007 for children
under 5 years old in Kalamazoo County indicate that 6.2% are Hispanic, 72.7% are White (non-
Hispanic), 17.5% are African American (non-Hispanic), 0.6% is American Indian (non-Hispanic),
and 3% are Asian (non-Hispanic).8 The following table shows the age distribution by race and
ethnicity.

7
U.S. Census Bureau, 2007 American Community Survey.
8
National Center for Health Statistics. Estimates of the July 1, 2000 – July 1, 2007, United States resident
population from the Vintage 2007 postcensal series by year, age, sex, race and Hispanic origin, prepared under a
collaborative arrangement with the U.S. Census Bureau, August 7, 2008.
6
 Kalamazoo County Population by Race and Ethnicity for Children Under 5
2007 Estimate
Age Non-Hispanic Origin Hispanic Origin
American American
White Black Indian Asian White Black Indian Asian
Under 1 2,304 441 20 114 175 22 0 2
1 2,283 530 20 96 200 13 2 1
2 2,167 577 20 82 190 5 1 0
3 2,344 601 20 76 180 12 0 1
4 2,231 572 20 87 155 14 0 4
Totals 11,329 2,721 100 455 900 66 3 8
Source: National Center for Health Statistics. Postcensal estimates of the resident population of the United
States for July 1, 2000 – July 1, 2007 by year, county, age, bridged race, Hispanic origin and sex (Vintage
2007). Released August 7, 2008.

Data from the 2007 American Community Survey for Kalamazoo County indicates that 13.3% of
whites live below the poverty level, 40% of Blacks live below the poverty level, and 22.2% of
Asians live below the poverty level.9 Applying these percentages to the number of 3 and 4 year
olds in Kalamazoo County, an estimated 608 white, 469 black and 36 Asian children ages 3 and
4 are below the poverty level.

3 & 4 Year-Old Population by Race and Poverty

Kalamazoo County 2007
Race Number Percent % Poverty Number in
Poverty
White (non-Hispanic) 4,575 72.7 13.3% 608
Black (non-Hispanic) 1,173 17.5 40% 469
Asian (non-Hispanic) 163 3 22.2% 36
Hispanic 529 6.2 N N
N indicates that the data for this item cannot be displayed because the sample is too small.

Childhood Poverty in Kalamazoo County and Current Head Start Capacity

The following map shows the distribution of children under 5 below poverty in Kalamazoo
County by census tract. The data is from the 2000 census, when 14.6% of Kalamazoo County
children under 5 were below poverty compared to 25.9% according to the 2007 American
Community Survey. The darker shades of green indicate higher numbers of children in poverty.
Number, rather than percentage is used to assist outreach efforts. One can see that the highest
number of children in poverty live within the central neighborhoods in the City of Kalamazoo
and several other areas in the urbanized areas of the county. The map shows that there are few
areas within the county in which children totally escape poverty. The labels indicate the census
tract number.

9
U.S. Census Bureau, 2007 American Community Survey.
7
8
The following map shows the Head Start sites in relation to children under 5 below poverty.
The size of the circles indicates the capacity of the sites. While there are no Head Start sites
physically present in some of the areas of highest concentration of eligible children, many
families are served by sites in contiguous census tracts.

9
Section 3: Other Child Development and Child Care Resources

The purpose of this section is to meet the requirement for a description of “other child
development and child care programs that are serving Head Start eligible children, including
publicly funded State and local preschool programs, and the approximate number of Head
Start eligible children served by each.”

There are eight organizations in Kalamazoo County that receive GSRP funding for preschool
services for 4 year olds in families with income between Head Start income eligibility
requirement and 300 percent of the poverty level with identified risk factors. In 2008/09 there
were a total of 619 GSRP slots available in Kalamazoo County. The following table shows the
distribution of GSRP children served in 2008/09. The Kalamazoo Advantage Academy, a charter
school, closed its doors at the end of the 2007/08 school year. The 58 slots allocated to the
Kalamazoo Advantage Academy were not re-allocated to another Kalamazoo County GSRP
provider.10

Great Start Readiness Programs

Serving Residents of Kalamazoo County, MI: 2008/09
Programs within Kalamazoo County Total
Preschool
Slots Funded
Galesburg-Augusta Schools 32
Gull Lake School District 13
Kalamazoo Public School PEEP 324
Learning Village, Inc. 72
Parchment Public Schools 36
Comstock Public Schools 85
Portage Public Schools 32
Vicksburg Community Schools 25
Total 619
Source: Michigan School Readiness Program 2008-09 State Aid
Allocations with Supplemental Funds.

According to data from the Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, 64.7% (635) of 4-year-
olds below poverty are enrolled in any pre-school. Nine percent (88) are enrolled in GSRP and
53% (520) are enrolled in Head Start at some point during the school year.11

10
Great Start Readiness Program 2008-09 State Aid Allocations, revised 3/26/09.
11
Bartik, Timothy J., Economic Development Benefits of Pre-School Expansion in Kalamazoo County. Upjohn Staff
Working Paper 09-147. July 24, 2008. p. 24.
10
The following map shows the locations of Great Start School Readiness Programs and
Kalamazoo County Head Start sites in relation to areas of greatest child poverty in Kalamazoo
County.

11
In Kalamazoo County there were 95 licensed child care centers (not including Head Start and
GSRP centers) with a capacity of serving 5,082 children (average of 53 and median of 45 per
center). The following map shows the location of licensed child care centers and Head Start
sites and their capacity in relation to children under age 5 below poverty.

12
In 2007 a total of 2,032 children ages 0 – 5, or 11.1 percent of children ages 0-5, were in
subsidized child care in Kalamazoo County.12 Of these children 1,273 are 3 and 4-year-olds. 13
Data provided from Child Care Resources, Southwest Michigan 4C shows that a majority of child care
providers in Kalamazoo County accept Department of Human Services’ clients who receive the child care
subsidy. Of the full day centers, 88 percent accept child care subsidies. 14

12
Annie E. Casey Foundation, Kids Count in Michigan, Community-Level Information on Kids, 2008.
13
Information provided by Jeremy Reuter, Director of the Head Start Collaboration Office, Michigan Department of
Human Services.
14
Information provided by Stephanie Buszka, Referral Coordinator. Child Care Resources, Southwest Michigan 4C.

13
Section 4: Children with Disabilities
The purpose of this section is to meet the requirement for describing “the estimated number
of children with disabilities four years old or younger, including types of disabilities and
relevant services and resources provided to these children by community agencies.”

In 2008/09, Kalamazoo County Head Start served 777 children, of whom 87 (11.2%) had a
diagnosed disability. This is an increase from the children with disabilities served in 2007/08
(70 or 10.2%). Of the children with a diagnosed disability, 78 had speech or language
impairments, one had a health impairment, one was autistic, two had visual impairments, and 5
had non-categorical/developmental delays. Seventy-nine of the children received special
services and 80 had an IEP.15

According to data available from the Michigan Office of Special Education and Early
Intervention Services, on December 1, 2008, there were 663 children age 3 to 5 years old
receiving special education services in Kalamazoo County. The following table shows the
distribution of children by school district for 2008.

Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Area

Special Education Students Ages 3 – 5
December 1, 2008 IDEA Count
District 3-5 Year Olds
Kalamazoo RESA 64
Kalamazoo Public School District 254
Climax-Scotts Community Schools **
Comstock Public Schools 51
Galesburg-Augusta Community Schools 9
Gull Lake Community Schools 46
Parchment School District 32
Portage Public Schools 140
Schoolcraft Community Schools **
Vicksburg Community Schools 48
Oakland Academy **
Paramount Charter Academy 7
ISD Total 663
Source: Michigan Compliance Information System, Data Portrait Reports.
Available on the Internet from: www.micis.org
** Figure masked for confidentiality reasons.

15
Head Start ChildPlus Disability Summary Report (3540) run 4/9/2009.

14
The following table shows the type and incidence of disability by age identified by Kalamazoo
Regional Educational Service Area (RESA). For 3 and 4-year-olds, speech only (256) was the
largest type of disability, followed by Early Childhood Developmental Delay (49) and Autism
Spectrum (34).

Kalamazoo RESA- Disability Incidence by age as of 12/08

Eligibility Area Age 0 1 2 3 4 5
Hearing -- 1 -- 2 5 3
Impairment
Visual Impairment -- 1 -- 2 -- 3
Cognitive -- -- -- -- 2 3
Impairment
Physically Impaired -- 2 4 2 5 4
Speech only -- 2 32 107 149 199
(Speech Language
Impaired)
Early Childhood -- 9 12 26 23 28
Developmental
Delay
Multiple -- -- 3 2 2 --
Impairments
Autism Spectrum -- -- 5 11 23 29
Otherwise Health 2 15 9 11 16 4
Impaired
Source: Kalamazoo Regional Education Service Area

15
Section 5: Characteristics of Head Start Children 2008/09
The purpose of this section is to provide “data regarding the education, health, nutrition, and
social service needs of eligible Head Start children and their families.”

Information on children and families in this update was taken from the Head Start ChildPlus PIR
Audit Report data or Management Reports on children enrolled, terminated, and
terminated/waitlisted during the 2008/09 school year.

Kalamazoo County Head Start Enrollee Characteristics

Enrollment By Program Option
Four Day Program
Children full day (6 or more hours) 40
Children part day (less than 6 hours) 737
Total Actual Enrollment
Age 3 189
Age 4 405
Age 5 183
Total Actual Enrollment 777
Sources: Head Start ChildPlus PIR Audit Report Indicators 2008-09,
4/ 9/09 Report (program option data), Management Report –
Demographics, 4/10/09 (age data)

The percent of children age 4 served by Kalamazoo County Head Start are consistent with other
Head Start programs nationally. Age 5 and over was 3% nationally in 2007 and 24% locally; age
3 was 36% nationally and 24% locally.16

16
Administration for Children & Families, Office of Head Start, Head Start Program Fact Sheet, Fiscal Year 2007
Program Statistics.

16
 Kalamazoo County Head Start Enrollee Characteristics
Actual Enrollment by Ethnicity and Race
Hispanic 81
Non-Hispanic/Non-Latino 696
Asian 15
Black or African American 341
White 192
Multi-racial 83
Unspecified 146
Actual Enrollment by Primary Language of the Family at Home
English 703
Spanish 53
Middle Eastern and South Asian 14
East Asian Languages 5
African Languages 2
Sources: Head Start ChildPlus PIR Audit Report Indicators 2008-09,
4/ 9/09 Report (ethnicity), Management Report – Demographics,
4/10/09 (race data), Primary Language and Race Report, 4/10/09
(primary language at home)

Slightly over ten percent (10.4%) of Kalamazoo County Head Start children are Hispanic,
compared with 34.7% nationally. In Kalamazoo County, 6.2% of all children ages 5 and under
are Hispanic.17

Fewer than 10% of Kalamazoo County Head Start children speak a language other than English
at home. While 6.7% of households in Kalamazoo County speak a language other than English
at home, only 2.2% speak English less than “very well” according to Census data.18

17
National Center for Health Statistics. Postcensal estimates of the resident population of the United States for
July 1, 2000 – July 1, 2007 by year, county, age, bridged race, Hispanic origin and sex (Vintage 2007). Released
August 7, 2008.
18
U.S. Census Bureau, 2007 American Community Survey.
17
 Kalamazoo County Head Start Enrollee Characteristics
Head Start ChildPlus PIR Audit Report Indicators 2008-09
Enrollment by Health Indicators
Total Children with Health Insurance 700
Medicaid/EPSDT 656
State Child Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) 0
SCHIP/Medicaid 0
State Only 0
Private Health Insurance 44
Other Insurance Not Listed 0
Children with No Insurance 25
Children with Continuous Ongoing Care 694
Children on Schedule with Preventive and Primary Care 577
Children Receiving a Dental Exam 498
Children Referred for Mental Health Services 13
Received Mental Health Services 0
Children with Diagnosed Disabilities 98
Sources: PIR Audit Report – Health Insurance, 7/13/09; PIR Audit Report –
Actual Enrollment – Health Services, 7/13/09 (Continuous Ongoing Care and
Schedule with Preventive and Primary Care); PIR Management Report – Health
Services, 7/13/09 (Dental); PIR Audit Report – Mental Health Services and
Developmental Screenings, 7/13/09 (mental health); PIR Audit Report –
Disability Services, 7/13/09 (disabilities). Data verified by Early Childhood
Health and Development Supervisor, 7/13/09.

Local Head Start children have health insurance coverage similar to those nationally. In
Kalamazoo County, 93% of Head Start children have health insurance, the same at the national
rate for Head Start children. Of local Head Start children with health insurance, 87% were
enrolled in the Medicaid/EPSDT program or a state sponsored child health insurance program
compared with 85% nationally (2006 Head Start Bureau).

Local Head Start children (11.2%) are slightly less likely to be diagnosed with a disability
compared to the national averages (12.2%). Locally, 90% of the diagnosed disabilities were for
speech and language impairment.

18
 Kalamazoo County Head Start Enrollee Characteristics
Family Characteristics
Total Head Start Families Served 715
Two-parent Families 236
Single-parent Families 479
Employment: Two-parent Families
Both Parents Employed 29
One Parent Employed 147
Both Parents Not Working (unemployed, disabled) 25
Employment: Single-parent Families
Parent Employed 233
Parent Not Working (unemployed, disabled) 197
Job Training/School: Two-parent Families
Both Parents in Job Training or School 2
One Parent in Job Training or School 37
Neither Parent in Job Training or School 197
Job Training/School: Single-parent Families
Parent in Job Training or School 55
Parent Not in Job Training or School 422
Highest Level of Education Obtained by Parent(s)
Less than High School Graduate 231
High School Graduate or GED 378
Some College, Vocational School, Associate Degree 37
Bachelor’s or Advanced Degree 39
Federal or Other Assistance Received
Families Receiving TANF 525
Families Receiving SSI 103
Homelessness
Homeless Families Served 12
Homeless Children Served 13
Homeless Families that Acquired Housing 6
Source: ChildPlus PIR Audit Report Indicators 2008-09, 4/9/09

The majority of local Head Start families are headed by single parents. Of the Head Start
families served during 2008-09, 33% were two-parent families and 67% were single-parent
families, compared with 65% of two-parent families with own children under 18 years and 35%
being headed by single parents in Kalamazoo County in 2007.19 The majority (57%) of Head
Start families had one or both parents who were employed at the time of enrollment. While
407 families had at least one parent employed, Head Start had 40 full-day slots available. In
2008 there were 183 homeless 3 and 4 year olds in Kalamazoo County who were served by a
homeless shelter.20 The Head Start program served 13 homeless children or 7% of the
population.

19
U.S. Census Bureau, 2007 American Community Survey.
20
ServicePoint data for Kalamazoo County, 2008. Provided via e-mail from Housing Resources, Inc. 2/11/09.

19
 Kalamazoo County Head Start Enrollee Characteristics
Family Services Received
Emergency Basic Needs – food, clothing, shelter 169
Housing Assistance – subsidies, utilities, repairs 129
Transportation Assistance 79
Mental Health Services 56
English as a Second Language Training 23
Adult Education – GED, higher education, etc. 99
Job Training 44
Substance Abuse Prevention or Treatment 4
Child Abuse and Neglect Services 10
Domestic Violence Services 10
Child Support Assistance 11
Health Education (including Prenatal Education) 96
Assistance to Families of Incarcerated Individuals 10
Parenting Education 64
Marriage Education 2
Families Receiving at Least One Service 332
Families Receiving WIC 563
Source: Head Start ChildPlus PIR Audit Report 2008-09, 4/9/09

WIC was the community service most used by Head Start families, with 72% of families
receiving nutritional services through WIC. Other services were used by 43% of Head Start
families, with emergency basic needs, housing assistance, and adult and health education
topping the list. The following chart shows the number of services received by type.

20
Section 6: Perceptions of Head Start Parents
The purpose of this section is to identify “the education, health, nutrition, and social service
needs of Head Start eligible children and their families as defined by families of Head Start
eligible children. . .”

Returning Families
In addition to examining programmatic data, demographic data and trends for this community
assessment, Head Start conducted a parent survey with 2007/08 returning families to gain an
understanding of the adults’ experiences with the program, their programmatic needs, and the
assistance their family needs.

Limitations
All of the data presented only represents the information provided by the returning
Head Start parents/guardians who responded to the survey, and do not represent all
the Head Start parents/guardians.
All of the data presented is time limited and provides information at a single point in
time, which has passed.
Some of the data relies on the perception or individual experience of the respondent or
respondents and only represents that individual perception.
All assumptions based on the data are at best still just assumptions.

Methods
The surveys were distributed to families eligible to return (271) by classroom staff at
conferences. All surveys were presumably distributed and 151 surveys were returned for a
response rate of 56%.

Analysis
Data from returned surveys were entered into EpiInfo, Version 3_2_2 and analyzed using the
program’s analysis features. Descriptive statistics were computed for all variables included on
the Parent Survey and are reported below. Many respondents did not answer every question
on the survey. The questions not answered were recorded as missing. The percentages are
based on a percentage of the total number of surveys received.

Results

Program Options
In terms of program options, nearly half (47%) would like a five-day per week program. Over
half (56.3%) of the parents would like a full day program, and nearly one-fourth (24.5%)
indicated a need for summer care. The following table shows the responses to the program
design/option questions.

21
 Kalamazoo County Head Start Parent Survey
2008-09
N=151
Question Yes No Missing
Family’s needs would be better served with a 5-day per week 47% 45.7% 7.3%
program
Family’s needs would be better served with a full day program 56.3% 36.4% 7.3%
I need summer care for my preschooler. 24.5% 64.9% 10.6%

Program Satisfaction
The majority of parents agreed that they are satisfied with the services their family received
from the overall program (86.1%), classroom staff (94%), transportation (69.5%), and their
Family Services Worker (79.5%).

Parents agreed that Head Start has helped their child get ready for school by becoming more
independent (91.4%), learning basic concepts in language (90.7%), learning basic concepts in
math (74.2%), and learning to share and cooperate (91.4%). Head Start gives their child a safe
place to learn (97.4%) and a clean environment (97.4%).

Parents received quality information through the parent handbook (87.4%), parent/teacher
conferences and home visit (96.7%), the monthly calendar (97.4%), home visits with the Family
Services Workers (68%), and flyers announcing program events (90.1%).

Head Start has told parents about how to be involved with Policy Council (76.8%), Parent
Center meetings (89.4%) and classroom volunteering (90.7%).

Head Start has provided parents with informational support regarding child development
(92%), community resources (86.8%), personal relationships (74.2%), disabilities (60.9%),
mental health (62.9%), and health/dental health (86.1%). Nearly three-fourths of parents
(74.8%) agreed that Head Start centers are friendly and inviting for fathers.

When asked if their child attended child care before or after Head Start, 35.8% indicated yes,
59.6% said no, and 4.6% did not answer the question. Of children receiving care before or after
Head Start the primary source of care for 59.3% was care at home or another home with a
relative or unrelated adult, 22.2% at a child care center or classroom, 16.7% at a family child
care home, and 1.9% through a public school pre-Kindergarten program.

Parents agreed that Head Start has enabled them to define their own life goals (46.7%),
accomplish and pursue their goals (48.3%), and understand their role as the primary educator
for their child(ren) (78.8%).

The majority of parents agreed that their child’s teacher worked with them to plan their child’s
learning and development (82.8%), planned activities around their child’s individual needs

22
(82.1%), and helped them have a better understanding of their child’s social/emotional
development (85.3%).

Of the 29 parents who indicated that there had been staff turnover during the year, more than
half reported that it was positive (44.8%) or somewhat positive (24.1%). When parents
reported requesting help for their child’s disabilities, they agreed that services were delivered
in a timely manner (71.1%), the services were useful and successful (68.9%), and the services
were supportive of their family’s values (73.3%). Only 2.2% - 4.4% percent of the parents
disagreed with these statements. The rest were neutral (2.2%), didn’t know (15.6%), or did not
answer the question (10.8%).

Expressed Needs
Parents were asked to identify areas in which their family needs assistance. Finding
employment was the greatest need expressed (15.9%), followed by finding affordable
recreation activities (15.2%), obtaining clothing or household supplies (12.6%), obtaining
reliable transportation (11.9%), paying for child care while at work or in school (11.3), and
paying for a housing (rent, mortgage, utilities) [10.6%].

Kalamazoo County Head Start Parent Survey

2008-09
N=151
Question Needs
Assistance
Find employment 15.9%
Find affordable recreation activities 15.2%
Obtain clothing or household supplies 12.6%
Obtain reliable transportation 11.9%
Pay for child care while I am at work or in school 11.3%
Pay for housing (rent, mortgage, utilities) 10.6%
Pay for health care insurance 6%
Improve my job-seeking skills (like interviewing, writing 6%
resumes)
Pay for medical needs (doctor visits, exams, medications) 5.3%
Obtain food for my family 4.6%
Obtain skills to manage my money 4.6%
Find a safe place to live 4%
Pay for counseling services or substance use treatment 1.3%

Parents were asked to identify their biggest concern for their family. Responses included
specific concerns about their child (e.g. family dynamics, further education), their financial
situation, housing status, and employment or educational needs to improve their income.
Comments included thanks to the staff for their experiences, their child’s development socially
and academically, and preparation for kindergarten.

23
Head Start Applicants
Starting with the 2009/10 recruitment period, Head Start applicants were asked to fill out a
needs survey during the application process. The two page survey includes basic information
about families including household characteristics, type of Head Start options preferred, and
characteristics about the respondent. Families were also asked about a variety of situations
faced by low-income households and their current needs for assistance. From March 5, 2009 –
April 17, 2009 a total of 101 surveys were completed.

Limitations
All of the data presented only represents the information provided by Head Start
applicants who responded to the survey, and do not represent all the Head Start
applicants.
All of the data presented is time limited and provides information at a single point in
time, which has passed.
Some of the data relies on the perception or individual experience of the respondent or
respondents and only represents that individual perception.
All assumptions based on the data are at best still just assumptions.

Methods
The surveys were distributed to Head Start applicants during their face-to-face application visit
with a Family Services Worker. All applicants were presumably asked to complete a survey.

Analysis
Data from returned surveys were entered into EpiInfo, Version 3_2_2 and analyzed using the
program’s analysis features. Descriptive statistics were computed for all variables included on
the survey and are reported below. Many respondents did not answer every question on the
survey. The questions not answered were recorded as missing. The percentages are based on
a percentage of the total number of surveys received.

Results

Family Characteristics
Only 14% of the applicants have less than a high school education. Nearly half (45%) have some
college or a college degree.

24
Nearly half of the respondents identified themselves as African American (41%), followed by
Caucasian (35%), other (6%), Asian (5%), Hispanic (5%), or multi-racial (2%). The majority (85%)
speak English at home, followed by other language (6%), or Spanish (2%). The other language
most often specified was Arabic.

The majority of households are headed by a single mother (48%). The other households are
married couple with children (31%), or living with partners (11%). Single father headed
households accounted for less than one percent of the respondents.

Over two-thirds (69%) of the families rent either an apartment or house, with 15% living in a
home they own, 8% living with family or friends, and 2% having another living arrangement. No
one reported they were homeless.

Nearly half of the respondents (46%) are working full- or part-time and 42% indicated they
were unemployed. Of the people who indicated they are unemployed, 33% are not looking for
work, 17% have been looking for
over six months, and 31% for
two months or less. Of the
people not looking for work, the
majority (64%) have a spouse or
a partner.

Program Options
In terms of program options, 72.3% would like a five-day per week program. Nearly half (48.5%)
of the respondents would like a full day program, and 33% indicated a need for summer care.
The following table shows the responses to the program design/option questions.

2009 Kalamazoo County Head Start New Applicant Survey

N=101
Question Yes No Missing
Family’s needs would be better served with a 5-day per week program 72.3% 16.8% 10.9%
Family’s needs would be better served with a full day program 48.5% 40.6% 10.9%
I need summer care for my preschooler. 33.7% 52.5% 13.8%

25
Expressed Need
Applicants were asked to identify areas in which their family needs assistance. Finding
employment was the greatest need expressed (21.8%), followed by finding affordable
recreation activities and paying for child care while at work or in school (17.8% each), paying for
health insurance (15.8%), and obtaining clothing or household supplies (10.9%).

2009 Kalamazoo County Head Start Applicant Survey

N=101
Question Needs
Assistance
Find employment 21.8%
Find affordable recreation activities 17.8%
Pay for child care while I am at work or in school 17.8%
Pay for health care insurance 15.8%
Obtain reliable transportation 12.9%
Obtain clothing or household supplies 10.9%
Improve my job-seeking skills (like interviewing, writing 9.9%
resumes)
Pay for housing (rent, mortgage, utilities) 7.1%
Obtain food for my family 6.9%
Obtain skills to manage my money 5.9%
Pay for counseling services or substance use treatment 5.9%
Pay for medical needs (doctor visits, exams, medications) 5.3%
Find a safe place to live 2%

Applicants were also asked a series of questions about their household’s experiences in the
past six months. In the area of basic needs, the majority of applicants strongly agreed or
agreed that they have reliable transportation (83.2%), their home is in good repair (82.2%),
they have plenty of food to eat (80.2%), they have good health insurance (78.2%), and they had
enough money to buy clothes and household supplies (61%). They were less likely to agree or
strongly agree that their household skips meals to save money (7%) and their utilities had been
recently disconnected for not making payments (6%).

In the area of economic sufficiency the majority of applicants strongly agreed or agreed that
they can pay for the medicine their household needs (66.4%) and their household income can
support the needs of their family (55.5%). They also strongly agreed/agreed that they are
usually short of money at the end of the month (60.4%) and they worry about how their
household is going to make ends meet (49.5%). Fewer than half pay all their bills on time
(44.6%), have difficulty paying medical bills (33.7%), have trouble making monthly housing or
rent payments (29.7%), do not go to the doctor because they cannot afford it (21.8%), and use
payday or cash advance stores (13.8%). Few agree it will be easy to pay off all their credit card
debt (14.9%).

In terms of social support the majority strongly agree or agree that they feel good about the
direction their life is taking (83.1%), have family or friends they can turn to for help (68.3%), and
have family or friends that turn to them for help when they need help (66.4%). The majority
26
does not like to ask others for help (66.4%), and over one-third agreed that it is difficult for
them to find someone dependable to help them if they need help (36%).

The majority strongly agrees or agrees that they have the skills to do their job well (81%), but
also would like to take classes to improve their job skills (55.5%). Fewer than half agree that
they have a good paying job (36.7%), while 23.8% would like to improve their speaking, writing
or reading English skills.

Less than half of the applicants strongly agree or agree that they have affordable child care
(46%) and 43.5% state it is easy to find care for my children while they are at work or school.
Nearly one-fourth are concerned about the quality of child care their children receive (23.8%).

In terms of community resources, the majority strongly agrees or agrees that local community
programs have helped their household meet their basic needs (60.4%). Less than half agree that
the Community Action Agency has been helpful to their household and only 6% agree that they
have trouble getting access to mental health or substance use treatment they need.

In some cases the low agreement rates were because the situation did not apply to the
household. The following table shows the responses by level of agreement.

27
 Head Start Applicant Responses 2009
N=101
Household Experience

Does not
Disagree

Disagree
Strongly

Strongly

Missing
Agree

Agree

apply
I have good health care insurance for my household 6.9% 9.9% 49.5% 28.7% 2% 3%
I have affordable child care 12% 12% 28% 18% 26% 4%
Local community programs have helped my household meet our basic 7.9% 8.9% 36.6% 23.8% 20.8% 2%
needs
I would like to improve my skills speaking, writing, or reading English 21.8% 15.8% 10.9% 12.9% 36.6% 2%
I feel good about the direction my life is taking 5% 9.9% 45.5% 37.6% 1% 1%
I can pay for the medicine my household needs 10.9% 18.8% 40.6% 19.8% 7.9% 2%
I have trouble making my monthly housing or rent payments 21.8% 36.6% 21.8% 7.9% 10.9% 1%
I have family or friends that turn to me when they need help 8.9% 10.9% 43.6% 22.8% 8.9% 5%
Sometimes we do not go to the doctor because we cannot afford it 43.6% 22.8% 13.9% 7.9% 8.9% 3%
It is easy to find care for my children while I am at work or at school 17.8% 22.8% 13.9% 7.9% 8.9% 3%
It will be easy for me to pay off all of my credit card debt 30.7% 23.8% 9.9% 5% 28.7% 2%
I have enough money to buy clothes and household supplies 14% 24% 50% 11% 0% 1%
It is difficult for me to find someone dependable to help me if I need help 18% 39% 26% 10% 65 1%
I have the skills I need to do my job well 1% 6% 38% 43% 10% 2%
I am concerned about the quality of daycare my children receive 21.8% 18.8% 13.9% 9.9% 33.7% 2%
My home is in good repair (for example, the windows, plumbing, and heat 3% 8.9% 40.6% 41.6% 4% 2%
work)
I have difficulty paying medical bills 22.8% 16.8% 24.8% 8.9% 25.7% 1%
We skip meals in order to save money 53.5% 28.7% 3% 4% 9.9% 1%
We have trouble getting access to mental health or substance use 29.7% 16.8% 3% 3% 45.5% 2%
treatment we need
I have a good paying job 23.8% 23.8% 24.8% 5.9% 17.8% 4%
I worry about how my household is going to make ends meet 14.9% 23.8% 37.6% 11.9% 5.9% 5.9%
I pay all of my bills on time 10.9% 39.6% 32.7% 11.9% 3% 2%
I have reliable transportation (such as a car or bus) 4% 9.9% 49.5% 33.7% 1% 2%
The local Community Action Agency has been helpful to my household 5.9% 9.9% 30.7% 10.9% 40.6% 2%
I would like to take classes to improve my job skills 9.9% 12.9% 31.7% 23.8% 19.8% 2%
My household has plenty of food to eat 2% 14.9% 52.5% 27.7% 1% 2%
We usually are short of money at the end of the month 6.9% 22.8% 42.6% 17.8% 6.9% 3%
I have family and friends that I can turn to for help 4% 19.8% 41.6% 26.7% 4% 4%
I often use payday or cash advance stores 44.6% 16.8% 7.9% 5.9% 22.8% 2%
I do not like to ask others for help 5.9% 25.7% 42.6% 21.8% 3% 1%
My utilities have recently been disconnected for not making payments 39.6% 38.6% 4% 2% 14.9% 1%
Our household income can support the needs of our family 8.9% 31.7% 41.6% 13.9% 2% 2%

28
Section 6: Key Informants

The purpose of this section is to identify “the education, health, nutrition, and social service
needs of Head Start eligible children and their families as defined by . . . institutions in the
community that serve young children;”

Key informant surveys were conducted with community leaders. Forty surveys were received.
The majority of the key informants indicated that they had the most contact with families
(52.5%) and children and youth (45%) concerning key community issues, followed by senior
citizens (37.5%), other (22.5%), and persons with disabilities (17.5%).

Key informants were most knowledgeable about early childhood development (55%), housing
(45%), and health and well-being (42.5%), followed by self-sufficiency and basic needs (37.5%),
neighborhood and community issues (27.5%) and workforce development preparation (17.5%).

The number of clients served ranged from 17 to 38,000. Four key informants did not directly
provide services to clients. Fifty percent (50%) of the key informants indicated that the number
of clients served over the past three years has increased, for over one-fourth (27.5%) the
number of clients served has remained the same, and for 10 percent the number served as
decreased. Several key informants pointed out that although their service level remained the
same it was due to funding and that the needs had increased.

Causes of Poverty

When key informants were asked to select the top three causes of poverty in Kalamazoo
County, the results were:

Lack of job skills (47.5%)

Lack of education/training (47.5%)
High housing costs (45%)
The overall ranking of causes of poverty follows.

29
30
Seriousness of Community Issues

Key informants were asked to rate the seriousness of issues that impact people in poverty in
Kalamazoo County. Affordable housing and heating costs were identified as the most serious
concerns, followed by access to health care and the number of good jobs available.

Community Issues as Ranked by Key Informants

Sorted from Most Serious to Least Serious (based on mean)
1 = Not a Problem 5 = Very Serious Problem
Issues 1 2 3 4 5 Mean
Affordable housing 0% 2.5% 12.5% 25% 60% 4.43
Heating costs 0% 2.5% 12.5% 30% 55% 4.38
Access to health care 2.5% 0% 12.5% 30% 55% 4.35
Number of good jobs available 0% 0% 21.1% 23.7% 55.3% 4.34
Affordable quality child care 0% 0% 18.9% 37.8% 43.2% 4.24
Wages are too low 0% 7.7% 10.3% 41$ 41% 4.15
Transition from welfare to work 2.6% 0% 36.8% 31.6% 28.9% 3.84
Help for disabled residents 2.6% 0% 36.8% 39.5% 21.1% 3.76
Public Transportation 5.0% 12.5% 20% 32.5% 30% 3.7
Support for families 5.4% 2.7% 37.8% 29.7% 24.3% 3.65
Help for older residents 2.7% 5.4% 40.5% 45.9% 13.5% 3.62
Cost of food 2.6% 7.7% 46.3% 30.8% 12.8% 3.44
Activities for young people 0% 8.1% 54.1% 27% 10.8% 3.4
Education & training 7.7% 12.8% 28.2% 35.9% 15.4% 3.38
Public safety/crime 5.6% 8.3% 44.4% 36.1% 5.6% 3.28
Taxes 8.1% 27% 43.2% 10.8% 10.8% 2.89
Support for businesses 8.6% 28.6% 48.6% 11.4% 2.9% 2.71

Availability of Resources

Key informants were asked to rate the availability and adequacy of a number of resources for
low-income people in Kalamazoo County. The following scale was used: 1 for unavailable, 2 for
extremely limited, 3 for meets minimal need, 4 for available, but not easy to get, 5 for generally
available but needs some improvement, and 6 for adequate.

Emergency food assistance and information on help available were rated as available, but not
easy to get, while availability of child care, assistance with utility shut-offs, prescription
assistance, assistance with rent, availability of jobs, eviction assistance, and access to health
31
care were rated as meets minimal needs. The following figure shows the mean of the
responses.

Qualitative Data Comparisons

Returning Head Start parents were less likely to have some college or a college degree than the
Head Start applicants surveyed. They were more likely to be employed full- or part-time. Both
sets of parents identified their greatest need as finding employment followed by finding
affordable recreation activities. A greater percentage of Head Start applicants identified
needing assistance with paying for child care while at work or school and paying for health care
insurance than returning Head Start parents. Key informants were more likely to identify
access to health care as a problem for people in poverty than the experience of returning Head
Start parents and applicants indicate.

Returning parents were more likely to identify that their family’s needs would be better served
with a full-day program, but less likely to indicate a need for summer care. The following
tables show the difference in responses for program options and expressed needs.

32
 Comparison of Survey Responses on Program Options
Percentage Responding Yes
Question Returning Head Start Head Start
Parents Applicants
Family’s needs would be better served with a 5-day per week 47% 72.3%
program
Family’s needs would be better served with a full day program 56.3% 48.5%
I need summer care for my preschooler. 24.5% 33.7%

Comparison of Survey Responses on Expressed Needs

Percentage Responding Needs a Lot of Assistance
Question Returning Head Start Head Start
Parents Applicants
Find employment 15.9% 21.8%
Find affordable recreation activities 15.2% 17.8%
Obtain clothing or household supplies 12.6% 10.9%
Obtain reliable transportation 11.9% 12.9%
Pay for child care while I am at work or in school 11.3% 17.8%
Pay for housing (rent, mortgage, utilities) 10.6% 7.1%
Pay for health care insurance 6% 15.8%
Improve my job-seeking skills (like interviewing, writing resumes) 6% 9.9%
Pay for medical needs (doctor visits, exams, medications) 5.3% 5.3%
Obtain food for my family 4.6% 6.9%
Obtain skills to manage my money 4.6% 5.9%
Find a safe place to live 4% 2%
Pay for counseling services or substance use treatment 1.3% 5.9%

33
Section 7: Community Resources
The purpose of this section is to identify “resources in the community that could be used to address the needs of Head Start
eligible children and their families, including assessments of their availability and accessibility.”

Kalamazoo County Head Start has extensive partnerships with community organizations, local schools, faith-based organizations,
and early childhood agencies and programs in Kalamazoo County.

Organization Address Phone Number Requirements Notes

Education and Literacy
Child Care Resources, 3304 Mindi Lane (269)349-3296 Fee-based service; free to Assists parents in the
Kalamazoo Regional 4C Kalamazoo MI 49001 participating employers selection of a child care
and agencies provider for their child
Even Start 3400 Lovers Lane (269)337-0097 Family literacy program
Kalamazoo MI 49001 providing comprehensive
services in early and adult
literacy.
Ready, Set, Succeed! 3410 Laird (269) 488-7599 The program consists of
Great Start Kalamazoo MI 49008 home visits, developmental
screenings and playgroups.
Ready to Read (early 315 S. Rose St. 269 342-9837 Trains and schedules
childhood literacy Kalamazoo, MI 49007 volunteers to read to
program) children and model book
Kalamazoo Public Library sharing for parents.
Kalamazoo Promise 125 West Exchange Place (269) 337-0037 Kalamazoo Public School Tuition scholarship to
Kalamazoo Public Schools Kalamazoo, MI 49007 (KPS) graduates who attend post-secondary
reside in the district and education at any public
have been KPS students State of Michigan
for four years University or Community
College.
Kalamazoo Literacy 208 Woodward (269) 343-8666 Free tutoring of English
Council Kalamazoo MI 49007 speaking adults

34
Organization Address Phone Number Requirements Notes
Hispanic American Council 930 Lake Street (269) 385-6279 ESL classes for Spanish
Kalamazoo MI 49001 speaking adults
Kalamazoo Public Schools 714 S Westnedge (269) 337-0446 High school completion
Kalamazoo MI 49001 classes, ESL
Portage Public Schools 8111 S Westnedge (269) 323-5000 High school completion
Portage MI 49024 classes, ESL
Parchment School District 1125 East Mosel (269) 488-1470 High school completion
Kalamazoo MI 49004 classes
Disability Resources
Croyden Avenue School 4606 Croyden Avenue (269)373-3279 Provides special programs
Kalamazoo, MI 49006 for autism, blind, deaf, &
mobility-challenged.
Family Infant Toddler 3410 Laird (269) 337-0710 An early intervention and The children have been
Program Kalamazoo MI 49008 special education service identified through
Great Start for children birth to three evaluation to have a
years of age. developmental delay or a
physical impairment that
could impact their ability
to learn or function
successfully in educational
settings.
Pre-primary Evaluation 4606 Croyden Ave (269) 373-3263 Preschool children with Team recommends plan
Team Program (PET) Kalamazoo MI 49006 suspected developmental for special education
(K/RESA) delay impairments services and adaptive
devices
Early On 3410 Laird (269) 488-7599 Infants & toddlers with Service coordination and
Kalamazoo MI 49008 developmental delays development of
and/or medical conditions individualized service or
that could lead to a delay education plans (ISFP or
IEP)

35
Organization Address Phone Number Requirements Notes
General Medical Resources
Family Health Center – 117 W Paterson (269) 349-2641 Medically underserved Family practice, pediatrics,
North and medically indigent pharmacy, and laboratory
residents on-site
Family Health Center – 2030 Portage Road (269) 349-0888 Medically underserved Family practice, pediatrics,
South Kalamazoo MI 49001 and medically indigent pharmacy, and laboratory
residents on-site
Family Health Center – 235 E Centre Ave (269) 488-7342 Medically underserved Family practice, pediatrics,
Portage Portage MI 49002 and medically indigent pharmacy, and laboratory
residents on-site
Free Clinic of Kalamazoo 2918 Portage Road (269) 344-0044 Kalamazoo County Diagnosis and treatment
Kalamazoo MI 49001 residents with no health of minor and acute
insurance and cannot illnesses
afford to pay for medical
services
Kalamazoo Center for 1000 Oakland Drive (269) 337-4400 Anyone Medical services
Medical Studies Kalamazoo MI 49008 administered by resident
physicians
Children’s Special Health 3299 Gull Road (269)373-5003 Qualifying, medically Sliding scale based on
Care Services Kalamazoo, MI 49048 diagnosed condition income; most services no
charge

Hearing and Vision 3299 Gull Road (269) 373-5008 Open Clinics are available Appointments are needed
Screening Program Kalamazoo MI 49048 at no cost on a regular
Kalamazoo County Health basis
& Community Services
Department

Immunization Clinic 3299 Gull Road (269) 373-5238 No appointment is needed Fees are based on income
Kalamazoo County Health Kalamazoo MI 49048 at any of the clinics
& Community Services
Department
36
Organization Address Phone Number Requirements Notes
Mental Health Resources
Children's Trauma Unified Clinics (269) 387-7073 Multi-disciplinary
Assessment Center of Kalamazoo MI 49008 diagnostic assessment &
SWMI referral for children who
have had traumatic
experience
Family and Children’s 1608 Lake Street (269) 344-0202 Authorization from Home-based treatment
Services FACT (Family and Kalamazoo MI 49001 Community Mental program services
Community Treatment) Health/Summit Pointe
Community Healing 2615 Stadium Drive (269) 343-1651 Child victim of sexual Facilitates coordination of
Centers Kalamazoo MI 49008 abuse and non-offending services among DHS-
family members Protective Services, police,
courts, medical and
psycho social treatment
providers
Gryphon Place 1104 S Westnedge (269) 381-4357 Crisis intervention hot-line
Kalamazoo MI 49008 for parents/others
concerned about child’s
well-being
Interact of Michigan 610 S Burdick St (269) 381-3700 Authorization from KCMHS In-home support for
Kalamazoo MI 49007 Access Center individuals with severe
and persistent mental
illness.
Dental Services
Dental Clinic 3299 Gull Road (269) 373-5217 Eligibility based on income Sliding Fee Scale available.
Kalamazoo County Health Kalamazoo MI 49048 guidelines. Medicaid
& Community Services accepted
Department

37
Organization Address Phone Number Requirements Notes
Dental Clinic 2030 Portage Road (269) 349-0888 Provides children’s dental Sliding Fee Scale available
Family Health Center- Kalamazoo MI 49001 services for medically
South underserved and medically
indigent. Medicaid
accepted
Dental Clinic 235 E Centre Ave (269) 488-7342 Provides children’s dental Sliding Fee Scale available
Family Health Center- Portage MI 49002 services for medically
Portage Community underserved and medically
Center indigent. Medicaid
accepted
Nutrition Resources
MSU –Extension EFNEP 3299 Gull Road (269) 383-8830 Families with young
(Expanded Food and Kalamazoo MI 49048 children and limited
Nutrition Education resources (Food Assistance
Program) or WIC)
WIC (Women, Infant and 3299 Gull Road (269) 373-5002 Available to families with a
Children Nutrition Kalamazoo MI 49048 limited income.
Program) Medical/nutritional risk
Kalamazoo County Health factors assessed.
& Community Services
WIC 117 W Paterson (269) 349-3647 Available to families with a
Family Health Center – Kalamazoo MI 49007 limited income and
North medical/nutritional risk
factors

38
Organization Address Phone Number Requirements Notes
WIC 2030 Portage Road (269) 488-0838 Available to families with a
Family Health Center – Kalamazoo MI 49001 limited income and
South medical/nutritional risk
factors
Basic Needs (Emergency Financial Assistance, Shelter, Food, Clothing)
Michigan Department of 322 Stockbridge (269) 337-4900 Meet SER (State Cap on emergency
Human Services – Kalamazoo MI 49001 Emergency Relief) financial assistance
Kalamazoo eligibility requirements available each year
Housing Resources Inc 420 E Alcott (269) 382-0287 Meet pre-screening
Kalamazoo MI 49001 criteria for housing
emergency. Primary
emergency agency for
housing financial
assistance.
Salvation Army 1700 S Burdick (269) 344-6119 DHS decision notice and
Kalamazoo MI 49001 determination of
emergency. Primary
emergency agency for
utility financial assistance.
Kalamazoo Deacon’s 1010 N Westnedge (269) 344-7333 DHS and primary Furniture, appliances,
Conference Kalamazoo MI 49007 emergency agency clothing also available
decision notices.
Christian Resource Center 1833 S Burdick (269) 388-5054 DHS and Salvation Army
Kalamazoo MI 49001 decision notices
St. Vincent DePaul 513 Eleanor St (269) 388-4544 Referral required. DHS and
Kalamazoo Mi 49007 Salvation Army decision
notices.
Portage Community 325 E Centre St (269) 323-1942 Limited to residents of city Limited financial
Center Portage MI 49002 of Portage or Portage assistance, food pantry
Public School District. and clothing bar

39
Organization Address Phone Number Requirements Notes
Comstock Community 6330 Kings Highway (269) 345-8556 Limited to residents of Limited financial
Center Kalamazoo MI 49048 Comstock Township or assistance, food pantry
Comstock Public School
District
South County Community 101 S Main St (269) 649-2901 Limited to residents of Limited financial
Services Vicksburg MI 49097 south Kalamazoo County assistance, food pantry,
week-end backpack
program
Kalamazoo Loaves and 913 E Alcott (269) 343-3663 Food assistance 1 time in Referral from agency
Fishes Kalamazoo MI 49001 30 days to any Kalamazoo provides additional access.
County resident Network of food pantries
across the county
Salvation Army 1700 S Burdick (269) 344-6119 Must use Loaves and 4 days of food with a limit
Kalamazoo MI 49001 Fishes for 30 days before of 3 times per year. Free
accessing service used clothing once every
three months
Dream Center 1122 Portage (269) 382-4760 Food limited to Edison Free clothing and furniture
Kalamazoo MI 49001 neighborhood residents
Church of God 2929 E Main (269) 349-8181 Food pantry limited to 1
Pentecostal Community Kalamazoo MI 49048 time in 30 days
Services Development
Corporation
Kalamazoo Gospel 448 N Burdick (269) 345-2974 Soup kitchen 3 meals a day/7 days a
Mission Kalamazoo MI 49008 week
Ministry With Community 440 N Church St (269) 343-6073 Breakfast and lunch Sack lunch for working
Kalamazoo MI 49007 people
Praise Baptist Church 829 Rose Court (269) 345-3814 Supper M- F Children must be
Kalamazoo MI 49007 accompanied by adult
HRI Family Shelter 522 Eleanor Street (269) 382-5609 Homeless families with Shelter, meals, laundry
Kalamazoo MI 49007 children and children’s play area
Kalamazoo Gospel 448 N Burdick (269) 345-2974 Homeless , not a resident Shelter, 3 meals, toiletries
Mission Kalamazoo MI 49008 within past 3 months
40
Organization Address Phone Number Requirements Notes
Domestic Assault Program 353 E Michigan (269) 345-5595 Shelter for female victims 24 hour shelter, crisis
– YWCA Kalamazoo MI 49007 and their dependent phone, counseling,
children only clothing, transportation
Warm Kids Project 8242 Greenfield Shores (269) 329-0882 New winter clothing Head Start provides
Scotts MI 49088 through school referral referrals for coats, boots,
mittens, scarves
Employment and Job Training
Michigan Works 1601 S Burdick (269) 383-2536 Access to Michigan Talent
Kalamazoo MI 49001 Bank, resume writing
assistance, career
counseling, OJT programs,
dislocated worker
programs
Michigan Department of 322 Stockbridge (269) 337-4900 Work First program
Human Services – Kalamazoo MI 49001
Kalamazoo
Portage Community 325 E Centre St (269) 323-1942 Limited to residents of city Job Assistance Center
Center Portage MI 49002 of Portage or Portage
Public School District
Goodwill Industries 420 E Alcott (269) 382-0490 Low-income, unemployed Career assessment, job
Kalamazoo MI 49001 search, job development
and retention
Other Resources
Legal Aid of Western 201 W Kalamazoo Ave, (269) 344-8113 Low income, over 60 or Free civil legal services
Michigan Room 308 victims of domestic assault
Kalamazoo MI 49007

41
Section 8: Conclusions
Expand preschool services. With the increasing rate of poverty among children
in Kalamazoo County, especially in the city of Kalamazoo, there continues to be a
demonstrated need for Head Start Services. With nearly half of our families in
which the parent or both parents work, we are unable to meet full day requests.
When expansion funds become available, Kalamazoo County should apply.

Increase collaborations with community partners. Explore collaboration with

the Great Start School Readiness Program (GSRP) to extend services to Head
Start families in Head Start/GSRP sites located in the same school building.
Explore collaboration with child care centers located in Census Tracts 29.05,
22.02, and 33.02 to provide services to Head Start eligible children. Increase the
community partners’ referrals made to Head Start for services on a year-round
basis.

Increase opportunities for healthy family functioning. Provide information to

parents about community resources for affordable recreation activities and
other ways to be involved in their child’s education and development.

Expand cultural competency. Increase the number of bi-lingual classroom staff

and Family Services Workers. Increase the pool of interpreters for other primary
languages spoken in the home.

Improve the delivery of family services. Improve the Family Partnership goal
setting process and documentation to assist with identifying the education,
health, nutrition, and social service needs of families. This will lead to more
targeted services that respond to the identified needs and wishes of families.

Improve the accuracy of data collection and documentation. Continue to

improve the accuracy of current tracking systems and procedures.

Increase job readiness. Collaborate with other agencies to provide individualized

opportunities to increase parents’ job readiness skills based on goals set during
the Individual Family Partnership process.

42