Aboriginal Head Start is a federal program funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada. It is a comprehensive program to provide early interventions to First Nations, Métis and Inuit children. It includes the protection and promotion of all Aboriginal cultures and languages, education, health promotion, nutrition, social support systems and parental involvement.

Formerly Ottawa Aboriginal Head Start (OAHS), which began its existence in March 1997 and opened its doors on September 8, 1997, Makonsag Aboriginal Head Start Inc. (MAHS) incorporated early in 2005 and began operating on its own on April 1, 2005. MAHS currently serves 32 pre-school Aboriginal children aged 2½ to 5 years old.

MAHS provides children with activities that help them grow mentally, socially, emotionally, and physically. MAHS staff recognizes that, as parents, you are the first and most important teachers of your children. They will welcome your involvement in Head Start activities, and will work as partners with you to help your child progress.

MAHS staff offers your child love, acceptance, understanding, and the opportunity to learn and to experience success. Aboriginal Head Start children socialize with others, solve problems, and have other experiences which help them become self-confident. The children also improve their listening and speaking skills and also learn Aboriginal languages.