November Shared Offering: Migrant and Seasonal Head Start Program

The Migrant and Seasonal Head Start Program of the Multicultural Community Center in Rantoul provides child care and comprehensive services of education, health, nutrition, transportation, and social services for children ages birth to five years old of farm worker families. The Multicultural Community Center is based in Rantoul, where many migrant farm workers come to work and live. Beginning in June and going throughout the summer until September, migrant workers and their families make their trek from places like Texas and Florida to Champaign County to detassel corn and to begin removing weeds and other unwanted plants from corn and soybeans. The majority come at the end of June and beginning of July for detasseling and again in September for other harvest activities. At the height of the season, an estimated 400 to 500 migrant workers and family members are in our area. In addition to the Head Start program for younger children, families are provided services such as childcare, dental, medical and legal assistance through the Multicultural Community Center. Migrant families and children need support every time they move. Let’s show them our support!