As part of the nonprofit Head Start program, Echo Park Head Start provides childcare services to low income families. Designed to prepare three- to five-year-old children for kindergarten, the program provides 3 and 1/2 hours of free childcare each day. Activities include blocks, dramatic play, toys and games, art and library. Lunch and snack are provided.
The Hammond Head Start Center is located next to the Imperial Beach United Methodist Church and is part an Episcopal Community Service (ECS). The ECS program is a free pre-school and child care program, funded by the Neighborhood House Association. The center accepts applications for children ages 5 and under.