This report represents the testimony of Dr. Mary Ann Hutchison, Project Director of the mental health demonstration and research discretionary grant, "Strengthening Head Start Families: Reducing High Risk Through Mental Health Prevention/Intervention," who discusses the importance of reauthorization of Head Start's mental health component. After a summary of research supporting the need for mental health services for this population, some findings and their implications are presented from the discretionary grant that provides comprehensive mental health services to Head Start children and their families. Historically, Head Start has placed far less emphasis on the mental health component of the program than on other components. It is argued that neglecting the mental health needs of those children and families who would benefit from professional assistance jeopardizes the gains made by the Head Start program. Finally, the testimony urges a commitment to mental health to accomplish the primary goal of Head Start and the promotion of social competence of children and families, and concludes that targeting of mental health funds within Head Start with emphases on prevention, early identification, and rehabilitation is vital. (DST)