In the Hill Country of Texas, a unique experiment in early education lit a spark that flared into a roaring success nationwide. Head Start, whose mission was to provide early education to special needs and low income children, opened its doors in Stonewall in 1965. The birth of the educational program was announced in May of that year by LBJ, who declared at its inception that with the assistance of Head Start, “poverty’s children would not forevermore be poverty’s captives.”

So began this highly successful, life changing education for disadvantaged youngsters. With a name chosen by educators who understood the achievement boost that separated more affluent students from their lower socio-economic peers, Head Start was charged with bridging the gap for children of poverty.

In 1998, Head Start was expanded to full day and full year instruction. Services grew to include medical and dental screenings, in addition to quality early education. Parenting classes assisted mothers and fathers, providing structure for disorganized families. More than four decades later, Stonewall, Harper, and Fredericksburg continue to serve a total of 133 children, although recent cuts to the program have left a shortfall between government funding and local needs.

Enter an earnest group of local folk, the Friends of Head Start, who are determined to boost these urgently-needed services by sponsoring “Empty Bowl," a fundraiser placed at Becker Vineyard. Participants may buy a beautiful bowl, hand crafted by a ceramic artist. A choice of gourmet soups and bread provided by local restaurants will complete the simple meal. Participants will also be able to enjoy music provided by The Ben Beckendorf Band.

The proceeds will benefit all three local Head Start Centers. Carolyn Stewart, co-chair of the project, stresses the long range benefits of the excellence of the program. “We know that a strong percentage of Head Start children finish high school and then attend college. The lifelong benefits to the lives of the children cannot be overestimated.”

Join the Friends of Head Start March 2, at Becker Vineyard, for an evening of music and delectable soups. Your support will bring another shoulder to the wheel, enriching the lives of tiny local youngsters.

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