Abstract

In this study, we explored health and wellness practices of Head Start (HS) staff (N = 195) in Louisiana. This group of minority women presented with high levels of stress and poor health outcomes. This study examined how the pandemic impacted this vulnerable group of women compared to their fellow citizens in Louisiana. Results indicated HS staff were negatively impacted to a greater degree by COVID-19, including infection rates, physical health, anxiety, and financial stress. Results also indicated that HS staff were less likely to utilize COVID-19 tracking technology. Additional research is required to identify effective strategies for enhancing health, wellness, and resilience in this vulnerable population.