The Sivummut Head Start Program is part of the Aboriginal Head Start Initiative administered and funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). The intention behind this program is to assist in creating a beneficial and supportive learning environment for Aboriginal, pre-school aged children and their families that is culturally appropriate, and to give children an educational ‘head start’.

The Sivummut Head Start Program in Ottawa was established in March 1997 under the umbrella of Tungasuvvingat Inuit. Tungasuvvingat Inuit was the program sponsor until April 30, 2006

The Ottawa Inuit Children’s Centre was established in August of 2005 by parents of children involved in the Head Start. A minimal of 51 % of the Board of Directors must be Inuit and a minimal of 51% of the Directors must be parents/guardians of the children enrolled in the program. The Board of Directors for the Ottawa Inuit Children’s Centre is responsible for the operation of the Sivummut Head Start Program.