Head Start is a program that was started by the federal government in 1965 as a part of the War on Poverty Campaign. It is on e of the longest running programs of its nature and has benefited many children and families. Ascension Head Start has a rich history in the Donaldsonville community. It began in 1964 as a parish summer program for low-income families. With success, the program grew in 1981 when it extended to offer year-round services. In 1983, the grantee for the program changed from the parish of Ascension to the Ascension Parish School Board, as it continues today. Two hundred fifty-one student seats are offered each school year.