Our Approach

We take pride in:

• Building strong relationships with families
• Providing individualized support for each child
• Creating culturally responsive and inclusive environments
• Maintaining a team of caring, qualified professionals

We believe that families are a child’s first and most important teachers, and we are honored to partner with you every step of the way.

Our Commitment

At Vital Connections, what you see is what you get—authentic care, real relationships, and a team that is committed to helping your family thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who we are.
Vital Connections of the Midlands (Early Head Start Program) is a nonprofit Early Head Start organization that provides high-quality early childhood education and family-centered support services for pregnant mothers, infants, toddlers, and at-risk families throughout the Midlands.

2. Who does the program serve?
The program primarily serves economically challenged pregnant women, infants, toddlers, and families facing challenges such as homelessness, poverty, substance use, foster care involvement, or risk factors related to child abuse and neglect.

• Infants and toddlers (birth to age 3)
• Pregnant women
• Families in Richland County and surrounding areas

Children’s Garden is the only center that also serves 3K and 4K preschool-aged children.

3. What ages do you serve?
Vital Connections serves pregnant mothers and children from birth to age three through its Early Head Start programs. Some locations also provide services for older preschool-aged children. Children’s Garden is the ONLY center serving 3K & 4K.

4. What services are included in the program?
Families receive access to early childhood education, developmental support, health and nutrition services, family advocacy, mental health resources, and school readiness support.

5. Where are your centers located?
Our centers are located throughout Richland County: Arthurtown is on 223 Riley St. in Columbia, Children’s Garden is on 1135 Blue Ridge Terrace in Columbia, and Tender Years is on 6862 Lower Richland Blvd in Hopkins.

Each center location is listed on our website with address details for easy access.

6. How does Vital Connections support parents and families?
The organization takes a family-centered approach by helping parents strengthen financial, educational, and emotional stability while encouraging self-sufficiency and healthy family relationships.

7. Is Vital Connections an Early Head Start program?
Yes. Vital Connections has been an Early Head Start grantee since 2010 and provides federally funded services focused on early learning and family support.

8. What makes the program unique?
Vital Connections combines high-quality early education with compassionate, non-judgmental support for the entire family. The organization emphasizes dignity, respect, inclusion, and long-term success for both children and parents.

9. How can families apply for enrollment?
Families can complete a pre-enrollment application through the organization’s website or contact the administrative office directly for eligibility and enrollment information.

10. How can I contact Vital Connections of the Midlands?
Vital Connections of the Midlands (Early Head Start Program) is located in Columbia, South Carolina. Families can learn more about programs, eligibility, and enrollment by visiting our official website or calling 803-661-8685.

11. What are your hours of operation?
All Vital Connections centers are open:
Monday – Friday (8:00am – 3:00pm)

Enrollment & Programs

12. How do I enroll my child?
You can complete our Enrollment/Interest Form online through our website.

The form will open in a new window so you can easily return to the site.

Enrollment Link

13. Do you serve pregnant mothers?

Yes! We provide support services for expectant mothers, including:

• Prenatal education
• Health resources
• Family support services

14. Is there a cost for services?
Vital Connections programs are federally funded, and services are provided at no cost to eligible families.

Family Support

15. What types of family services do you offer?
We support families through:

• Resource referrals
• Parenting support
• Health and nutrition guidance
• Goal setting and family partnerships

16. Where can I find resources for families?
Visit the Family Services → Resources section on our website for helpful tools, information, and community resources.

17. How will I know about emergency closings?
Emergency closings and updates will be posted on our website under:
Family Services → Emergency Closings

Programs & Learning

18. What does my child learn at your centers?
Our programs focus on:

• Social-emotional development
• Language and communication skills
• Early learning and school readiness
• Motor skills and independence

Children learn through structured play, guided activities, and positive interactions with teachers.

19. Are your teachers qualified?
Yes. Our staff are trained early childhood professionals who are committed to providing high-quality care and education.

Additional Information

20. Do you offer employment opportunities?
Yes! Visit our Careers page to:

• View open positions
• Apply online
• Submit your resume

21. Where can I find important documents like the parent handbook or calendar?
Important documents such as:

• Parent Handbook 
• Program Calendar 
• Monthly Newsletters 

will be available in the Resources section of our website.