How it Started: First Decade of East Coast Migrant Head Start Project

As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the East Coast Migrant Head Start Project (ECMHSP), it's important to reflect on the origins of our organization. Our journey began in 1974, thanks to the unwavering commitment of a group of nuns from the Leadership Conference of Women Religious.  

Sister Cecilia Aphold and the sisters of the Leadership of Christian Woman Religious envisioned a project that would provide vital health support to farmworker families along the East Coast. That is when they received a grant to do exactly that. Sister Cecilia hired Sister Geraldine O'Brian who then hires a group of staff to drive down to Florida with a

goal to start providing services to migrant farmworker families where it is most needed. After many challenges with city licensing, community adversaries, discrimination, etc. this vision quickly expanded, leading to the establishment of the East Coast Migrant Head Start Project.  

One of the most poignant symbols of our early days is "The Little Blue Chair." This simple piece of children's furniture, purchased by Sister Geraldine O’Brien, one of the founding leaders of ECMHSP, represents more than just a chair. It embodies the spirit of ECMHSP—our commitment to serving the community with care, dedication, and a focus on support for improving the lives of migrant families. Over the years, "The Little Blue Chair" has been present during key moments of planning and decision-making, serving as a reminder of our mission and the countless lives we've served. 

The Early Days: Building a Foundation of Support 

ECMHSP was part of a broader effort known as the East Coast Migrant Health Project. However, recognizing the need for comprehensive early childhood education, we expanded our mission and launched the East Coast Migrant Head Start Project. The transition was marked by partnerships with local nonprofits and school districts, known as "delegate agencies," which played a critical role in delivering services to farmworker families. 

Between 1974 and 1979, ECMHSP partnered with 13 delegate agencies across seven states, serving 717 children of migrant and seasonal farmworkers. These early years were marked by rapid growth and a deep commitment to our mission. The success of ECMHSP in its early years would not have been possible without the support of dedicated community partners, such as Rural Mission, one of our many delicate agencies.  

Pioneering Leaders and Their Impact 

Led by Linda Gadson, affectionately known as "The Mother Teresa of The Sea Islands," Rural Mission became a key partner for ECMHSP in 1980 serving over 250 children on Johns Island, South Carolina. This launch was inspired in part after a Latino farmworker's baby was tragically bitten by a rattlesnake in the fields of Johns Island. The mother had to bring her child to work due to the lack of childcare.  

This heartbreaking situation inspired Marybelle Howe and Church Women United to establish the Rural Mission to provide essential childcare for farmworker families.  

Their commitment to the well-being of migrant families aligned perfectly with ECMHSP’s mission, and together, we were able to provide comprehensive support services beyond the classroom. 

The first decade of ECMHSP was shaped by visionary leaders who understood the unique challenges faced by migrant families.  

Dana Rogers, who is a part of our Leadership team today, began her journey with ECMHSP in

1983 as a Bus Monitor with the Rural Mission Migrant Head Start on John's Island, South Carolina. Over the years, Dana’s roles evolved—from teacher to Head Start Administrator in 2011—highlighting her commitment to service and kindness.  

“No Early Childhood degree was required in the early years,” said Rogers. “All we needed was love and compassion.” 

Dana's dedication, shaped by her upbringing and mentors, has had a lasting impact on countless lives, and her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of education.  

Holistic Support: Beyond Education 

Let's not forget the children and families themselves who experienced challenges in accessing care, early learning, and basic services every day. One of the most inspiring child stories to remember is that of Maria Perez, who attended East Coast Migrant Head Start campuses in LaBelle, Florida; Sister Lakes, Michigan; and Beaufort and Greenville, South Carolina as a child.  

Today, Maria is the Human Resources Manager for Lipman Family Farms, the largest field tomato grower in the U.S. Her journey, from the daughter of migrant farmworkers to a successful professional, underscores the lasting impact of early education. Maria's Story is not just one of personal success but also reflects the opportunities ECMHSP provides to migrant families. 

In our first decade, ECMHSP recognized that supporting migrant families required more than just early childhood education. We adopted a holistic approach, offering wraparound services that addressed the various needs of these families. From providing nutritious meals to offering family and social services, and even transportation, ECMHSP was there every step of the way. These foundational services ensured that children were not only ready for school but that their families had the resources and support they needed to thrive. 

The formation of our first Parent Policy Council in 1979 was a significant milestone, as it ensured that parents played a crucial role in shaping the future of our program. Their dedication laid the foundation for the strong family partnerships that continue to be a cornerstone of ECMHSP today. 

A Decade of Growth and Expansion 

Looking back at the first decade of the East Coast Migrant Head Start Project, it’s clear that our early years were filled with challenges, hard work, and, most importantly, a deep commitment to serving migrant families. From the formation of our initial programs to the expansion of services under visionary leaders, the 1970s set the stage for the impact we continue to make today. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we honor the journey that brought us here and the countless lives that have been touched along the way.  

Our story is one of growth, resilience, and unwavering dedication to our mission—a story that continues to inspire and guide us as we look to the future. 

About ECMHSP    

East Coast Migrant Head Start Project was established in 1974 through a grant from the United States Department of Health and Human Services. Currently, ECMHSP operates in 43 educational campuses across ten states providing holistic, high-quality early childhood education services for approximately 3,000 farmworker children between 6 weeks to 6 years old. For more information, visit  https://www.ecmhsp.org/.