This formative evaluation study of Home Start uses a case study approach. A brief case study focuses on the administrative structure and staff resources and responsibilities of National Home Start. Also included are reports on seven local programs developed after two field visits had been made to each program. In the first visit, objectives chosen by the program staff were identified. During the later site visit, program staff were asked to describe successes and/or failures in reaching preliminary goals, to define those goals, and to describe the working relationship between program objectives and actual services provided for enrolled families. Each case study includes general information regarding program type, sponsors, admission criteria, start-up date, and hours of operation. Specific descriptive data on enrollment, characteristics of the families involved, staff, and funding is included. Most of the report's information is relayed in the following discussion sections: (1) Progress Report, (2) Administration and Training, (3) Parent Participation, and (4) Family Needs and Program Services. (DP)