Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Missouri
Mississippi Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers: The 2025 No‑BS Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, step‑by‑step playbook for single moms in Mississippi who need safe, affordable child care so you can work, study, or job‑train. Everything here links to official government or established nonprofit sources and includes real amounts, timelines, and phone numbers. If you spot an error, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it fast.
Quick help (read this first)
- If you’re working or in school/training and already joined the CCPP waitlist on or after April 1, 2025, check your email. Starting August 1, 2025, MDHS is inviting waitlisted families to apply. You’ll have only 10 days to submit once invited. Call 800‑877‑7882 if you need help. MDHS notice: CCPP applications resume for waitlist families. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- If you’re in one of six exception groups (TANF, foster, teen parent, special needs, deployed military, homeless), you can apply now even during pauses. Call 800‑877‑7882 or visit the parent portal. MDHS CCPP updates & exception list. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Free options for infants to age 5: Head Start/Early Head Start and state pre‑K “Early Learning Collaboratives” (ELCs). Use the Head Start locator or contact your local school district for pre‑K seats. How to apply for Head Start • MDE ELC news. (eclkcprod.eclkc.info, mdek12.org)
- Find licensed providers and who accepts subsidy: use the state’s search tool. Mississippi Child Care Provider Search. (mdhs.provider.webapps.ms.gov)
- Check a center’s history or file a complaint: MSDH hotline 866‑489‑8734 (Mon–Fri, 8–5). MSDH complaints and inspection info. (msdh.ms.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet
| Program | Who it helps | Age(s) covered | You pay | How to apply | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child Care Payment Program (CCPP) | Low‑ to moderate‑income working or student parents up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI). Exception groups can apply anytime; waitlist families invited in order. | Birth–12 | Monthly co‑pay (see below) + any amount above the state rate | Online when invited; exception groups may apply now; help line 800‑877‑7882 | Waitlist invites rolling since Aug 1, 2025; certificates last 12 months. (mdhs.ms.gov) |
| Head Start / Early Head Start | Income at/under 100% FPL; also foster, TANF/SSI, or homeless—automatic eligibility; some over‑income allowed locally. | Birth–5 | Free | Use the Head Start Center Locator; or call 866‑763‑6481 | Year‑round intake; many sites fill by late summer. (eclkcprod.eclkc.info, headstart.gov) |
| State Pre‑K (ELCs & SIP) | 4‑year‑olds in participating districts (some 3s with partnerships) | 4 (some mixed‑delivery) | Free school‑day preschool | Ask your school district or ELC lead | Seats vary by community; new ELCs added Mar 2024; SIP grants expanded Aug 2024. (mdek12.org, mdek12.org) |
| R&R Centers (MS LIFT Network) | Families needing help finding affordable, quality care | Birth–12 | Free referrals | Call a center near you (see contacts below) | Same day referrals; mobile units serve rural areas. (extension.msstate.edu) |
The main state subsidy: Child Care Payment Program (CCPP)
Start here: Are you able to apply today?
- Applications are open on a rolling basis for families on the official waitlist (joined on/after April 1, 2025) and are being invited by email in the order added. You have 10 calendar days to complete the application once you receive your unique link. Miss it and you’ll need to rejoin the waitlist. MDHS waitlist process and 10‑day deadline. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- The six exception groups can still apply any time:
• TANF or Transitional Child Care (TCC) families
• MDCPS foster care children
• Teen parents
• Families with a child or a single parent with documented special needs
• Deployed military families
• Homeless familiesDetails and FAQs: MDHS CCPP updates. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Who qualifies (income + activity rules)
- Income: Mississippi caps eligibility at up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI). MDHS prioritizes “very low income” families at or under 50% of SMI in some categories. MDHS eligibility overview. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Work/School: You must generally work 25+ hours/week or be enrolled full‑time in school or an approved training program (or a combination). Priority and exception groups may have different documentation rules. MDHS eligibility details. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Duration: Approved families get 12 months of assistance per certificate period. MDHS FAQ. (mdhs.ms.gov)
2025 income limits (what 85% of SMI looks like)
Mississippi uses SMI to set child care eligibility. Using the latest federal State Median Income estimates for FFY2025 for Mississippi, here are the annual income ceilings that correspond to 85% of SMI (rounded). These figures come from ACF’s SMI tables (we calculated 85% from the state’s base SMI). Always confirm with MDHS when you apply.
| Family size | 85% of SMI (annual) |
|---|---|
| 2 | $47,587 |
| 3 | $58,784 |
| 4 | $69,981 |
| 5 | $81,177 |
| 6 | $92,374 |
Source and method: ACF LIHEAP SMI state table for FFY2025 shows Mississippi’s estimated SMI; 85% thresholds are computed from those official SMI values. ACF LIHEAP SMI table (FFY2025). (acf.gov, liheapch.acf.gov)
Reality check: MDHS’ own “Income Guidelines” page explains the program uses 85%/50% of SMI, but the chart displayed there includes older federal poverty line figures. When in doubt, rely on the SMI percentage language in the rules and call 800‑877‑7882 to confirm your limit for your family size. MDHS eligibility. (mdhs.ms.gov)
What you’ll pay (co‑pays and “above‑rate” charges)
- Many families pay a monthly co‑pay set by MDHS. Some pay 0∗∗(TANF,homelesswithnocountableincome,orincomesat/belowthefederalpovertyline).Others(teenparents,TCC,foster,special‑needs,SSI‑disabledparent)havea∗∗maximumco‑payof0** (TANF, homeless with no countable income, or incomes at/below the federal poverty line). Others (teen parents, TCC, foster, special‑needs, SSI‑disabled parent) have a **maximum co‑pay of 10/month. All others pay on a sliding scale by income, family size, child age, and part‑ vs full‑time care. MDHS co‑payment rules. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Providers may charge more than the state reimbursement. If your provider’s published tuition is higher than the CCPP payment, you must pay the difference on top of your co‑pay. Example from MDHS: if your voucher pays 300∗∗andtuitionis∗∗300** and tuition is **390, you owe the $90 gap plus your co‑pay. MDHS parent page. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Current state reimbursement snapshot (why some centers still cost more)
The state sets reimbursement rates by market studies. The latest market survey (June 2024) found typical weekly full‑time tuition at the 75th percentile:
- Infant: 167/wk∗∗(metro∗∗167/wk** (metro **185, non‑metro $140)
- Toddler: 160/wk∗∗(metro∗∗160/wk** (metro **175, non‑metro $135)
- Two‑year‑old: 150/wk∗∗(metro∗∗150/wk** (metro **170, non‑metro $135)
- Preschool: 150/wk∗∗(metro∗∗150/wk** (metro **165, non‑metro $130)
- School‑age: 130/wk∗∗(metro∗∗130/wk** (metro **135, non‑metro $120)
The report also shows what the “current” CCPP rates were based on the prior 2021 study (e.g., full‑time infant: 152metro/152 metro / 125 non‑metro; preschool 135/135 / 120). Rates may have been updated after the MRS; always check with MDHS or your provider. 2024 Mississippi Market Rate Survey report (MDHS/MSU). (mdhs.ms.gov)
Table: Market tuition at the 75th percentile versus the prior CCPP “standard” rates referenced in the MRS (weekly, full‑time)
| Age group | Market 75th percentile | Prior CCPP rate – metro | Prior CCPP rate – non‑metro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant | $167 | $152 | $125 |
| Toddler | $160 | $145 | $120 |
| Two‑year‑old | $150 | — | — |
| Preschool | $150 | $135 | $120 |
| School‑age | $130 | $130 | $110 |
Source: 2024 MRS report (tables and narrative). (mdhs.ms.gov)
Why it matters: If your provider’s tuition is above the state rate, you’ll pay that gap plus your co‑pay. Build this into your monthly budget. MDHS parent page reminder. (mdhs.ms.gov)
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- For exception groups (apply any time):
- Gather documents. MDHS lists: proof of income, proof of employment or school enrollment, proof of Mississippi residency, and proof of your child’s identity/age (birth certificate or other). Have PDFs or photos ready to upload. MDHS application info including docs. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Pick a provider first. Search the database and check “Accepts MDHS Subsidy Children.” Search licensed providers. (mdhs.provider.webapps.ms.gov)
- Apply online via the MDHS parent portal (or call 800‑877‑7882 for help). MDHS “Apply for Child Care Payment Assistance”. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- For waitlisted families (invitation only):
- Watch for an email from MDHS with your unique link/code. You have 10 days to submit. If your email changed, MDHS says to update it through the waitlist link on its site. MDHS waitlist FAQ with 10‑day rule & update link. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- After approval, your provider will receive payment directly, and your monthly co‑pay will be printed on your certificate. MDHS “Apply/Participate” page. (mdhs.ms.gov)
What to expect next
- Certificates cover 12 months. Keep your employment/school/training proof current. Redeterminations follow program rules and funding. MDHS CCPP updates. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- You can change providers, but follow MDHS procedures and notify the program; your R&R center can help you find a new provider fast. MDHS provider/parent pages + R&R network • MS LIFT R&R Network. (mdhs.ms.gov, extension.msstate.edu)
Common mistakes to avoid (CCPP)
- Submitting late. Once invited from the waitlist, you have only 10 days. Set phone reminders. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Picking a provider that doesn’t accept subsidy. In the search tool, check “Accepts MDHS Subsidy Children.” (mdhs.provider.webapps.ms.gov)
- Missing documents (no recent paystubs or school proof). Have proof of income and enrollment ready before you start. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Not budgeting for the gap. If your provider charges above the state rate, you must pay the difference plus your co‑pay. (mdhs.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you’re not invited yet or denied: apply to Head Start/Early Head Start (free) and look at state pre‑K for four‑year‑olds. Also call your nearest R&R center for help finding lower‑cost care, sliding‑fee centers, or part‑time options. Head Start application • MDE early learning collaboratives • R&R centers directory. (eclkcprod.eclkc.info, mdek12.org, mdhs.ms.gov)
Special pathways with extra help
TANF families and Transitional Child Care (TCC)
- If you get TANF or recently left TANF for work, you’re an exception category and can get child care through CCPP without waiting. Participate in the TANF Work Program if assigned. MDHS CCPP updates (exception list) • TANF Work Program. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Transitional child care can continue for months after TANF if needed and funded under state/federal rules. Recent bills have referenced up to 24 months when funds are available; confirm current policy with MDHS. Mississippi HB1217 (2025) text excerpt on TCC). (billstatus.ls.state.ms.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your TANF case manager to refer you directly to CCPP as a “referred client” and connect you with an R&R center to find openings near your job. MDHS eligibility (referred clients). (mdhs.ms.gov)
Foster parents (MDCPS)
Children in foster care are an exception category for CCPP with special co‑pay protections. If you need child care for a foster placement, ask your MDCPS worker for a CCPP referral. MDHS CCPP updates (exception list). (mdhs.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact MDCPS and the CCPP help line 800‑877‑7882 to resolve referral issues. Foster board payment info: MDCPS foster parent resources. (mdcps.ms.gov)
Teen parents
Teen parents are prioritized and often have $10/month co‑pays if income is over FPL (no co‑pay at/below FPL). You must be in school or an approved program. Apply as your own family unit. MDHS eligibility & co‑pay rules • Co‑payment policy. (mdhs.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Add Head Start/EHS to your plan—pregnant and parenting teens are prioritized at many sites. How to apply for Head Start. (eclkcprod.eclkc.info)
Families with a child or parent with special needs
CCPP serves children with documented special needs and single parents with disabilities (SSI definition) up to 85% SMI with reduced co‑pays (often $10 maximum). MDHS eligibility • Co‑payments. (mdhs.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your R&R center for providers experienced with inclusion and for help with developmental screenings (offered free at many R&R locations). R&R network. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Deployed military families
Children of a deployed parent (active duty, Guard, Reserve) are eligible up to 85% SMI. If you’re stationed away and not using on‑base care, discuss CCPP or fee assistance options with your family readiness office. MDHS eligibility: deployed parents. (mdhs.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply to CCPP (exception category) and ask your R&R center to help identify providers with extended hours. CCPP updates. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Free and low‑cost care outside CCPP
Head Start and Early Head Start (EHS)
- Cost: Free. Covers comprehensive services (education, meals, screenings).
- Who qualifies: Income at or under 100% of 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines; also automatic eligibility for foster, homeless, or families on TANF/SSI. Programs can enroll some families up to 130% of FPL after serving the neediest first (local policy). Head Start eligibility rules • HHS 2025 Poverty Guidelines. (headstart.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
- 2025 FPL (48 states & DC): family of 2: 21,150∗∗;3:∗∗21,150**; 3: **26,650; 4: 32,150∗∗;add∗∗32,150**; add **5,500 per person. ASPE. (aspe.hhs.gov)
- How to apply: Use the Head Start Center Locator or call 866‑763‑6481 (Mon–Fri). How to apply. (eclkcprod.eclkc.info)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask to be added to the waitlist and apply to your local school district’s pre‑K (ELC) as a backup. (mdek12.org)
State pre‑K (Early Learning Collaboratives and State Invested Pre‑K)
- Mississippi funds high‑quality pre‑K through local “Early Learning Collaboratives.” The Legislature set a minimum per‑student state rate of $2,500 for full‑day programs (matched locally). Additional SIP (State Invested Pre‑K) grants help districts not in collaboratives. Statute language and updates • MDE press releases on ELC/SIP expansions. (billstatus.ls.state.ms.us, mdek12.org)
- Seats vary by district; many fill by spring/summer for fall start. Ask your school district or ELC lead partner. MDE ELC announcement (Mar 7, 2024). (mdek12.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Keep your Head Start application active; ask your R&R center for mixed‑delivery pre‑K classrooms hosted at child care centers. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Student parents (college)
- Some Mississippi campuses operate CCAMPIS‑supported child care for Pell‑eligible student parents. Example: The University of Southern Mississippi accepts CCAMPIS applications through its Center for Child Development. Check your campus family services or child development center. USM CCAMPIS application info • Federal program overview: U.S. Department of Education CCAMPIS. (usm.edu, www2.ed.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your financial aid office about emergency childcare grants or campus vouchers, and apply to Head Start/EHS or CCPP (if eligible). (eclkcprod.eclkc.info, mdhs.ms.gov)
Find and vet providers quickly
- State search tool (see licensing status, services, ages, hours, inspection history): Mississippi Child Care Provider Search. You can filter for “Accepts MDHS Subsidy Children.” (mdhs.provider.webapps.ms.gov)
- R&R centers help families pick quality care, do quick referrals, and loan learning materials. Some sites and mobile units serve rural counties and offer bilingual materials. R&R directory (phone numbers) • MSU Extension LIFT R&R network • Gluckstadt center (bilingual materials). (mdhs.ms.gov, extension.msstate.edu, ext.msstate.edu)
- Check complaints or file one: MSDH Child Care Licensure hotline 866‑489‑8734; online complaint form and inspection database available. MSDH complaint page. (msdh.ms.gov)
Real‑world examples (using 2025 numbers)
- Example A: 1 child, family of 2. You earn 20/hour∗∗,30hrs/week≈∗∗20/hour**, 30 hrs/week ≈ **31,200/year. That’s under $47,587 (85% SMI for 2). If you’re working 25+ hours, you meet the activity rule and likely qualify when invited. Your co‑pay depends on age and other factors. 85% SMI table based on ACF SMI 2025. (acf.gov, liheapch.acf.gov)
- Example B: 2 kids, family of 3. You earn 19/hour∗∗,35hrs/week≈∗∗19/hour**, 35 hrs/week ≈ **34,580/year. That’s under 58,784∗∗(8558,784** (85% SMI for 3). If your chosen provider’s weekly infant tuition is **175 (metro market 75th), and the state rate your provider gets is lower, expect to pay the gap plus your co‑pay. MRS 2024 rates. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Application checklist (bring this to your computer or R&R appointment)
- Government photo ID (you)
- Child’s birth certificate or other official proof of identity/age
- Proof of Mississippi residency (utility bill/lease with your name)
- Proof of income (recent paystubs, employer letter, or self‑employment records)
- Proof of school/job‑training (class schedule, enrollment letter) if applying as a student parent
- If applicable: TANF or foster care documentation, SSI award letter, documentation of homelessness, or military deployment orders
- Your chosen provider’s name (confirm they “accept MDHS subsidy children” in the search tool)
MDHS lists these documentation categories in its July 28, 2025 program notice and the parent application pages. MDHS program notice (docs list) • Apply page. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Co‑pays at a glance
- No co‑pay: TANF, homeless with no countable income, or income at/below FPL.
- $10/month maximum co‑pay: TCC recipients, teen parents, foster children, Healthy Families MS referrals, SSI‑disabled parent, or a child with special needs (with special rules if multiple children).
- Sliding‑scale co‑pay for others based on income, family size, child age, and full‑ vs part‑time status. MDHS publishes the fee scale and your certificate lists the exact amount. MDHS co‑payment policy. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Tip: Always get a receipt for each co‑pay; providers are required to follow the MDHS‑assigned amount. Miss. Admin. Code 18‑17‑6.2. (regulations.justia.com)
Costs and market reality in 2025
- The 2024 Market Rate Survey shows infant care at the 75th percentile averaging $167/week statewide (higher in metro areas). Many centers also charge a one‑time registration fee (about 73% reported charging one). 2024 Market Rate Survey. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- State reimbursement rates are set from market studies and administrative rules and may not cover full tuition. Expect to pay any gap plus your co‑pay. Miss. Admin. Code 18‑17‑8.2 (reimbursement framework). (law.cornell.edu)
Diverse communities: targeted tips and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your R&R center to help you identify welcoming providers; centers must follow state health/safety rules and nondiscrimination provisions in their licensure. The R&R network can also steer you to programs with inclusive family policies. R&R directory. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with a child with disabilities: You may qualify in the special‑needs priority up to 85% SMI and often a $10 co‑pay cap. Ask R&R centers for providers with inclusion experience and request developmental screenings (available through R&Rs). MDHS eligibility; co‑pay rules; R&R network • (https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/eccd/parents/pay/) • (https://extension.msstate.edu/family/children-and-parenting/mississippi-child-care-resource-and-referral). (mdhs.ms.gov, extension.msstate.edu)
- Veteran single mothers/deployed families: You’re a CCPP exception category; ask your base family support office and R&R center about extended hours and backup care options. MDHS eligibility for deployed parents. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: R&R sites report bilingual materials and can connect you with providers that offer language support. The Gluckstadt R&R center specifically notes bilingual resources. Gluckstadt R&R news. (ext.msstate.edu)
- Tribal families: If you’re served by a tribal CCDF program, ask your tribal social services/CCDF office about child care assistance alongside CCPP and Head Start/EHS in your area. (Programs follow federal CCDF rules.)
- Rural single moms: Use the MS LIFT R&R mobile units if you’re far from a center. They visit rural communities with resources and referrals. MSU Extension LIFT R&R Mobile Units. (extension.msstate.edu)
- Single fathers: CCPP and Head Start/EHS serve all eligible parents. The same eligibility and co‑pay rules apply. MDHS parents page. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Language access: If you need help in another language, tell MDHS or your R&R center; many sites provide translated materials or interpreter assistance. R&R network. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Local resource contacts (a few to get you started)
Resource & Referral Centers (more listed in the state directory):
- Cleveland R&R – 662‑719‑6019 (Delta Health Alliance). Directory listing. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- MSU Extension R&R – Decatur – 601‑635‑6136. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- MSU Extension R&R – Mayhew – 662‑243‑2684. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Tupelo R&R – 662‑620‑5370. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Gulfport R&R (USM/MECIC) – 601‑270‑4745. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Ridgeland R&R – 662‑867‑3511. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Raymond R&R – 662‑867‑3523. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Pascagoula R&R – 662‑867‑3531. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Wiggins R&R – 662‑867‑3513. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Meridian R&R – see local community college site via R&R directory. (ext.msstate.edu)
Other key numbers/links:
- CCPP help line: 800‑877‑7882 (MDHS Division of Early Childhood Care & Development). DECCD. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Licensing/complaints: MSDH Child Care Licensure 866‑489‑8734; general info 601‑364‑2827. MSDH complaint page • Licensure bureau contact. (msdh.ms.gov)
- Find providers (filter by “Accepts MDHS Subsidy Children”): Search the database. (mdhs.provider.webapps.ms.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid (all programs)
- Waiting to pick a provider until after you apply. MDHS tells you to pick first—your application asks for it. Apply page. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Ignoring email/SPAM. Add ccnotices@mdhs.ms.gov and cc.payment@mdhs.ms.gov to your contacts now so you don’t miss your 10‑day invite. MDHS notices • Waitlist FAQ. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Not budgeting for co‑pays and gaps between tuition and the state rate. Your certificate will list your co‑pay; ask your provider to show their published rates and your monthly balance. MDHS co‑pays • Parent page example. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Skipping Head Start/EHS because you think you earn “too much.” Programs can enroll a limited number over 100% FPL (up to 130% with strict conditions) after serving the neediest. Apply anyway. Head Start rules. (headstart.gov)
FAQs (Mississippi‑specific, 2025)
- Is CCPP open right now?
For most families, MDHS paused new applications earlier in 2025, but is inviting waitlisted families (added on/after April 1, 2025) to apply as of August 1, 2025. Exception groups can apply anytime. (mdhs.ms.gov) - How long do I have after I’m invited?
10 calendar days from the date on MDHS’s email to submit, or you’ll lose the spot and must rejoin the waitlist. (mdhs.ms.gov) - What’s the maximum income to qualify?
Mississippi uses 85% of SMI. For 2025, that’s about 58,784∗∗forafamilyofthreeand∗∗58,784** for a family of three and **69,981 for a family of four. Check your household size in the table above. (acf.gov, liheapch.acf.gov) - How much will I pay each month?
It depends. Some families have 0∗∗co‑pay;manyspecialgroupsarecappedat∗∗0** co‑pay; many special groups are capped at **10; others pay a sliding co‑pay plus any difference if their provider’s tuition exceeds the state rate. Your certificate shows the exact co‑pay. (mdhs.ms.gov) - Can I switch providers?
Yes. Follow MDHS instructions and notify MDHS/your provider. Use the state database to find a provider that accepts subsidy. (mdhs.ms.gov, mdhs.provider.webapps.ms.gov) - How long does my certificate last?
12 months from approval, if you remain eligible and funding continues. (mdhs.ms.gov) - Do I have to cooperate with child support to get child care?
MDHS removed certain child support cooperation barriers in recent years. Apply based on today’s rules; MDHS will verify what’s required for your case. Check the MDHS site for updates. (mdhs.ms.gov) - Where can I see inspection history or file a complaint?
MSDH maintains the inspection/complaint system and hotline 866‑489‑8734. (msdh.ms.gov) - I’m a student parent. Are there child care breaks on campus?
Some Mississippi colleges run CCAMPIS‑supported child care for Pell‑eligible student parents (e.g., USM). Ask your campus or see USM’s application page. (usm.edu) - I live far from town. Who can help me find care?
Use the R&R directory or call a nearby R&R center; MSU Extension also runs mobile R&R units serving rural counties with free resources and referrals. (extension.msstate.edu)
Tables you can use today
Table A: 2025 income ceilings by family size (85% SMI, Mississippi)
| Family size | 85% SMI (annual) |
|---|---|
| 2 | $47,587 |
| 3 | $58,784 |
| 4 | $69,981 |
| 5 | $81,177 |
| 6 | $92,374 |
Source: ACF SMI FFY2025; calculations from Mississippi’s SMI. (acf.gov, liheapch.acf.gov)
Table B: Typical weekly child care prices at the 75th percentile (what the market charges)
| Age | Statewide 75th percentile | Metro | Non‑metro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant | $167 | $185 | $140 |
| Toddler | $160 | $175 | $135 |
| Two‑year‑old | $150 | $170 | $135 |
| Preschool | $150 | $165 | $130 |
| School‑age | $130 | $135 | $120 |
Source: 2024 Mississippi Child Care Market Rate Survey (MSU/MDHS). (mdhs.ms.gov)
Table C: Co‑pay rules at a glance (CCPP)
| Situation | Monthly co‑pay |
|---|---|
| TANF recipients; homeless (no countable income); income at/below FPL | $0 |
| TCC, teen parent, foster child, Healthy Families MS referral, SSI‑disabled parent, or child with special needs | ≤ $10 |
| All others | Sliding scale by income, family size, age of child, full/part‑time |
Policy source: MDHS co‑payment page and CCPP policy manual provisions. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Table D: Who to call
| Need | Contact |
|---|---|
| CCPP questions / application help | 800‑877‑7882 (MDHS DECCD) |
| Licensing complaint or inspection info | 866‑489‑8734 (MSDH) |
| Find a provider that takes subsidy | Search the state database |
Sources: MDHS DECCD; MSDH. (mdhs.ms.gov, msdh.ms.gov)
Plan B options if you’re stuck on a waitlist or over the income line
- Apply to Head Start/EHS (free). Many sites maintain waitlists and fill spots year‑round when families move. How to apply. (eclkcprod.eclkc.info)
- Ask your R&R center about sliding‑fee centers, part‑time slots, or shared‑care schedules that fit your work shifts. R&R directory. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- If you’re a student parent, ask your campus about CCAMPIS or on‑campus child care discounts. USM example. (usm.edu)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the Mississippi Department of Human Services (DECCD/CCPP), the Mississippi State Department of Health, the Mississippi Department of Education, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (ASPE/ACF), and the Office of Head Start, plus established nonprofits (MSU Extension). It follows our research standards—primary sources (state/federal sites), cross‑verification, and fast updates when policies change. See our Editorial Policy for how we verify, track changes, and respond to corrections. ASingleMother.org Editorial Standards.
Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
Key sources verified (August–September 2025):
MDHS CCPP updates; waitlist re‑opening and 10‑day deadline; exception categories; parent and provider pages; co‑payment rules; DECCD contacts and R&R directory; MRS 2024; MDE ELC/SIP announcements; Head Start eligibility and application; 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines; 2025 Mississippi SMI (ACF) for income limit calculations; MSDH licensure/complaint lines. (mdhs.ms.gov, mdek12.org, mdek12.org, headstart.gov, eclkcprod.eclkc.info, aspe.hhs.gov, acf.gov, liheapch.acf.gov, msdh.ms.gov)
Disclaimer
Programs change. Funding changes. Local implementation can vary by county and provider. All dollar amounts ($) and deadlines are current to our best knowledge as of September 2025 and linked to official sources. Always confirm details with the relevant agency or provider. This guide is informational and not legal advice or a guarantee of eligibility or benefits.
🏛️More Missouri Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Missouri
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
