Community Support for Single Mothers in Mississippi

Last updated: September 2025

This guide focuses on community, church, and nonprofit help in Mississippi (not state or federal benefit programs). It’s built for single moms who need clear next steps, real contacts, and straight answers.

Emergency help first (24/7 and same‑day options)

If you are in danger, call 911.

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Quick help box

• Call 211 (or 866‑472‑8265) to get a live specialist who will text or email you a list of nearby churches/charities for rent, utilities, food, diapers, and shelter. Lines are open daily. Have your ZIP code ready. (myunitedway.com, uwca.myresourcedirectory.com)
• For rent or utility shutoff notices this week, call the Salvation Army office that serves your county at 8:30 a.m. on Monday to request an appointment. Jackson Area Social Services line: 601‑982‑4881 ext. 0. Appointments are first‑come by voicemail. Bring photo ID, lease/utility bill, proof of income, and notice. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
• If you live on the Coast (Harrison/Jackson/Hancock/George/Pearl River/Stone), call Back Bay Mission at 228‑432‑0301. They run emergency services, rent/utility help, day shelter, and a food pantry. Emergency services typically book from Thursday call‑ins at 9:00 a.m. for the next week. (mscoastchamber.com, hancockhrc.org)
• Need affordable legal advice on custody, guardianship, or consumer issues in the Jackson metro? Mission First Legal Aid offers income‑screened consultations for $10. Phone: 601‑608‑0056; address: 858 North St., Jackson. (missionfirst.org)
• Looking for work, better pay, or interview clothes? Try Goodwill Career Centers (free classes; Jacksonian Plaza: 601‑853‑8110) and Dress for Success Metro Jackson (suiting and job readiness; 601‑364‑1722, Jackson Medical Mall). (goodwillms.org, metrojackson.dressforsuccess.org)

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Why this matters in Mississippi

• Mississippi’s overall poverty rate is 18.0% (2024 QuickFacts). Single‑parent families are hit especially hard. (census.gov)
• KIDS COUNT tracks that Mississippi has one of the highest shares of children living in single‑parent families (state and county data updated January 2025). That’s why hyper‑local church and nonprofit help matters when timing is tight. (datacenter.aecf.org)

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How this guide is different (content gaps we solved)

• You’ll see exact call times, phone numbers, and in‑person addresses.
• We include eligibility notes, required documents, and realistic timelines—not just “call your local office.”
• We list alternatives if one door is closed this week (“What to do if this doesn’t work”).
• We cite only official or well‑established organizations and link to them directly.

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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What to bring everywhere (Application Checklist)

• Government photo ID (yours).
• Social Security cards (you and children) OR official printouts.
• Proof of address (lease, utility bill).
• Proof of crisis (eviction notice, utility disconnect, police report, medical note).
• Proof of income for last 30–60 days (pay stubs, child support printout, benefit letter).
• Landlord name, phone, W‑9 if asked; current ledger.
• If seeking childcare/diapers/formula: child’s birth certificate (or hospital record), doctor’s note if formula‑specific.
• Your phone set to receive unknown numbers and space in voicemail inbox.

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Rent, Utilities, and Basic Needs: Community & Faith‑Based Options

Start with the group serving your county. If funds are out for the month, ask when the next “open window” is and request to be added to the cancellation list.

Salvation Army (multiple corps across MS)

Most corps provide appointment‑based emergency help for rent, utilities, and essential needs; aid is paid to the landlord/utility when possible.

• Jackson‑area Social Services (Hinds/Madison/Rankin/Copiah/Scott/Yazoo): Call 601‑982‑4881 ext. 0 at 8:30 a.m. on Mondays to request an appointment (first‑come via voicemail). Office hours: Mon–Fri 8:30–4:30 (closed 12–1). Adult shelter check‑in (Center of Hope): daily 4:30–6:30 p.m.; ID required; no children. Address for Center of Hope: 110 Presto Ln., Jackson, MS 39206. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org, salvationarmyusa.org)
• Coast and other local corps: use the Salvation Army location finder or call your nearest corps; most operate similar appointment windows. (salvationarmyusa.org)

Eligibility & docs

• Photo ID; proof of address; lease/utility bill; proof of income and crisis (disconnect/eviction). Children may be considered for case‑by‑case motel stays if family shelter partners are available; budgets are limited.

Timelines

• Same‑week or within 1–2 weeks depending on appointment volume and funds. Expect a phone screening, then document verification.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call 211 to locate St. Vincent de Paul or church benevolence funds in your ZIP code; try Good Samaritan Center (Jackson) and Back Bay Mission (Coast) below. (myunitedway.com)

Back Bay Mission (Biloxi/Gulf Coast)

• Services: emergency assistance (rent, utilities, prescriptions, IDs/birth certificates), client‑choice food pantry, Micah Day Center (showers/laundry/computers), rental assistance (ESG case‑managed), and housing recovery. Admin hours Mon–Fri 8–4. Emergency Services: call on Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. for appointments for the following week. Main: 228‑432‑0301; address: 1012 Division St., Biloxi. (mscoastchamber.com, guidestar.org, hancockhrc.org)

Eligibility & docs

• ID, proof of residency and crisis, income verification; for rent help, a current lease and ledger are required. Some programs are case‑managed with follow‑ups.

Timelines

• Pantry and day shelter are same‑day. Financial help varies by funding—expect a few days to a couple of weeks after document approval.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call United Way 211 for St. Vincent de Paul (parish conferences) and Catholic Charities of South Mississippi options; ask about Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence rapid rehousing if DV‑related. (myunitedway.com, catholiccharitiesusa.org, gccfn.org)

Good Samaritan Center (Jackson & Laurel)

• Help for families in crisis: food pantry, clothing, limited bill assistance when funds allow; Jackson address: 114 Millsaps Ave., Jackson; phone 601‑355‑6276. Call first for hours and intake steps. (goodsamaritancenter.org, msdh.ms.gov)

Eligibility & docs

• Photo ID; proof of address; proof of emergency (e.g., shutoff). They may require a referral or verification.

Timelines

• Usually same‑week for pantry; financial aid depends on donations—ask about current cycles.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask staff to warm‑transfer you to another partner agency; then call 211 for additional churches in your ZIP code. (myunitedway.com)

Catholic Charities (Diocese of Jackson & Diocese of Biloxi)

• Jackson (Central MS): “Community Assistance” and “Parish Social Ministry” can help with stabilization supports (housing resources, utilities), case management, and disaster recovery when funding is available. Main office: 850 E River Pl., Ste. 300, Jackson, 601‑355‑8634. For DV/Sexual Assault in the Jackson region, use 24/7 crisis lines 601‑366‑0222 or 800‑273‑9012 (Jackson Victim Services). (catholiccharitiesusa.org, catholiccharitiesjackson.org)
• Catholic Charities of South Mississippi (Gulfport): assistance and outreach; phone 228‑701‑0555; address: 1450 North St., Gulfport. Services vary by funding (call first). (catholiccharitiesofsouthms.org)

Eligibility & docs

• Photo ID, proof of residence and need; intake screening.

Timelines

• Varies by funding. For DV services, hotlines are 24/7 with same‑day safety planning and shelter when available. (catholiccharitiesjackson.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Request a list of parish St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP) conferences in your area; ask for a written referral you can show to another church partner. Biloxi Council SVDP Pharmacy (low‑cost meds): 228‑374‑9097, 715 Division St., Biloxi. (biloxidiocese.org)

Mission First (Jackson‑area)

• Holistic neighborhood ministry with free/low‑cost medical and dental clinics, after‑school/early learning, and a Legal Aid Office (typical consult fee $10 for eligible clients). Legal Aid: 858 North St., Jackson; 601‑608‑0056. Clinics: 601‑919‑4136. (missionfirst.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• For civil legal help statewide, contact Mississippi Center for Legal Services or North MS Rural Legal Services at 800‑498‑1804 (intake). (mscenterforlegalservices.org, nmrls.com)

Stewpot Community Services (Jackson)

• Network of shelters and services: Community Kitchen (daily meals), Food Pantry (Hinds County), clothing closet, women & children shelter (Matt’s House), men’s shelter, Opportunity Center day shelter, Sister Trinita clinic, and Housing Assistance (RRH/Prevention). Address: 1100 W Capitol St., Jackson; main 601‑353‑2759. Housing Assistance office M–F 8–4. (stewpot.org)
• Free walk‑in Legal Clinic: Tuesdays 12–1 p.m., at the Community Kitchen. (stewpot.org)

Eligibility & docs

• ID and proof of residence for pantry (Hinds); no one is turned away in emergencies. Housing programs follow HUD criteria (homeless/at risk).

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask Stewpot staff to connect you to partner churches or Grace House (Jackson) for emergency services grants. (springboardto.org)

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Food Assistance, Diapers, and Essentials

• Mississippi Food Network (Central MS food bank): Hotline 601‑353‑7286; “Find Food” tool; every $10 donated provides 60 meals (good to know if a church asks where to donate in your name). (msfoodnet.org)
• Feeding the Gulf Coast (South MS): Find a pantry/mobile food drop; phone 888‑704‑3663. (feedingthegulfcoast.org)
• Extra Table (statewide supply partner for pantries): distributed about 1.3 million pounds of food in 2024; works with 60+ partners. If your local pantry is empty, ask if they partner with Extra Table or MFN. (extratable.org)
• We Will Go Ministries (Jackson): food boxes by appointment; call 601‑398‑2410; 806 N Farish St., Jackson. (wewillgo.org, msfoodnet.org)
• Feed My Sheep (Gulfport): hot lunch Mon–Fri around noon; 228‑864‑2701; 2615 19th St., Gulfport. (freefood.org, feedmysheepgulfport.org)
• Edwards Street Fellowship Center (Hattiesburg): large pantry serving multiple Pine Belt counties; 601‑544‑6149; 1919 Edwards St., Hattiesburg. (ampleharvest.org)
• Women’s Resource Center (Gulfport): parenting classes and material assistance (car seats/diapers when available); 228‑897‑8958; 9155 Old Lorraine Rd., Gulfport. (wrcgulfcoast.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call 211 and ask for “today’s open pantry or mobile drop” in your ZIP code; ask about church pop‑up food distributions. (myunitedway.com)

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Work, Income, and Stability

• Dress for Success Metro Jackson: professional attire by appointment, career coaching; Jackson Medical Mall, Suite 3410. Phone 601‑364‑1722 / 601‑364‑1755. (metrojackson.dressforsuccess.org)
• Goodwill Career Centers (Mississippi): free job search help, digital skills, resume/interview coaching; Jacksonian Plaza Career Center, 601‑853‑8110; statewide locations listed online. Goodwill of South MS has Career Connections on the Coast (Ocean Springs/Gautier). (goodwillms.org, goodwillsms.org)
• United Way 211 can also text you local hiring fairs and training partners; 44% of 211 Mississippi calls relate to utilities/rent—tell the navigator if work hours caused your crisis; they may know flexible aid. (myunitedway.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your church or local Goodwill for gas card referral programs tied to interviews or first‑week work (these are small and local—availability changes monthly).

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Legal Help (Family, Housing, Consumer)

• Mission First Legal Aid (Jackson metro): $10 consult if you meet income guidelines; family law, guardianships, consumer, housing; 601‑608‑0056. (missionfirst.org)
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services (Central/South) and North Mississippi Rural Legal Services (North): statewide intake 800‑498‑1804. Offices in Jackson, Gulfport, Meridian, McComb, Oxford, Greenville, Clarksdale, West Point. (mscenterforlegalservices.org, nmrls.com)
• Mississippi Center for Justice (public‑interest law): housing/evictions, fair housing, disaster recovery; Jackson office 601‑352‑2269. (mscenterforjustice.org, msdh.ms.gov)
• Northcutt Legal Clinic (Coast—part of Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence): free civil representation for DV/SA survivors (divorce, custody, protective orders). 228‑864‑7144. (gccfn.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask any of these offices to place you on a cancellation list, and request a warm transfer to the Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project (601‑960‑9577) for special clinics. (msreentryguide.com)

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Diverse Communities: Finding the right doorway to help

• LGBTQ+ single mothers
  • United Way 211 offers language access and can filter LGBTQ‑affirming resources in your area. Ask the navigator to note “LGBTQ‑friendly provider.” (unitedwaysems.org)
  • For safety planning, the Center for Violence Prevention and Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence serve all survivors regardless of orientation or gender identity. (msc4vp.org, gccfn.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a child with disabilities
  • Ask 211 for “disability‑friendly” pantries and diaper programs (many have adapted hours). (myunitedway.com)
  • Entergy’s charitable “Power to Care” helps older adults and people with disabilities who are Entergy customers with emergency utility bills (often administered through local nonprofits such as Salvation Army). Check eligibility before applying. (entergy.com)
• Veteran single mothers
  • Many SVDP conferences and Back Bay Mission maintain veteran‑focused support (e.g., Home at Last). Ask Back Bay Mission about veteran supportive services. (guidestar.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms
  • Catholic Charities (Jackson and South MS) and the Mississippi Immigrant Rights Alliance offer navigation and some legal services. Catholic Charities main line 601‑355‑8634; MIRA 601‑354‑9355. (catholiccharitiesusa.org, msdh.ms.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources (Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians)
  • Department of Family & Community Services (Choctaw): assistance services, family violence & victim services (Nittak Himmona shelter), food distribution; main 601‑650‑1778; 24/7 crisis 601‑663‑7851. (choctaw.org)
• Rural single moms (limited transport)
  • Ask 211 for mobile pantries and churches that deliver; Feeding the Gulf Coast and Mississippi Food Network host rotating mobile distributions—navigators can tell you dates. (feedingthegulfcoast.org, msfoodnet.org)
• Single fathers and kinship caregivers
  • The same orgs serve dads and caregivers; Goodwill career centers and Dress for Success/other clothing closets will help with work attire (Goodwill for men; DFS for women). (goodwillms.org)
• Language access
  • 211 Mississippi provides interpretation in over 180 languages. If you need a Spanish‑speaking legal advocate on the Coast, the DomesticShelters.org listings for Adrienne’s House/Jane’s House show multilingual support. (unitedwaysems.org, domesticshelters.org)

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Domestic & Sexual Violence: Safety, Shelter, Legal Help

What to bring if safe to do so: IDs, birth certificates/SS cards for kids, any court paperwork, medications, and a prepaid phone. If you cannot safely gather documents, go anyway—advocates can help.

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Tables you can scan fast

Table A — Rent & Utility Help from Nonprofits (by area)

Note: These charities rarely post fixed dollar caps. Amounts vary by funding and your bill. If a site doesn’t list a number, ask the screener, “What’s the maximum you can commit this week?”

Table B — Food & Essentials

Table C — Free/Low‑Cost Legal and Clinics

Table D — Safety & Shelter (Domestic/Sexual Violence)

Table E — Work, Clothing, and Tools

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Eligibility rules: what these nonprofits commonly ask for

• Living in the service area and facing a current crisis (eviction notice, utility disconnection, medical hardship, safety risk, or sudden income loss).
• Able to show ID, proof of residence, and proof of income/benefits.
• For rent help: valid lease and landlord W‑9; for utilities: most recent bill and disconnect notice.
• One‑time or once‑per‑year limits are common; each charity sets its own rules.

Tip: If your name isn’t on the lease or utility, ask your landlord/utility how to add an authorized payer or “household member” note before your appointment.

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Realistic timelines and expectations

• Phones get busy on Mondays and mornings. For Salvation Army (Jackson), calling at 8:30 a.m. Monday is required for new appointments. If you miss the window, set a reminder for next Monday and leave one clear voicemail with your name and callback number. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Food pantries and day shelters are often same‑day. Pantry hours can change; call ahead. (msfoodnet.org)
• DV/SA programs answer 24/7 and can safety‑plan even if shelter beds are full that night. (msc4vp.org, mscoastchamber.com)
• Legal aid triage depends on urgency (safety, eviction timelines, court dates). Mission First books by phone; Stewpot’s Tuesday clinic is walk‑in. (missionfirst.org, stewpot.org)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting until the day rent is due or power is cut. Many charities need 2–7 days for screening and payment processing.
• Not answering unknown numbers or having a full voicemail. Most callbacks come from restricted lines.
• Missing one required document (lease ledger, disconnect notice, ID). That’s the #1 reason for delays.
• Assuming a charity will hand cash to you. Payments usually go to a landlord or utility.
• Calling a site outside your county. Most funds are county‑restricted.
• Not telling staff if domestic violence or a medical crisis is involved—this can unlock different funds quickly.
• Reapplying to the same fund too soon. Ask, “What is your repeat‑assistance policy?”

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“What to do if this doesn’t work” — Plan B for each need

• Rent/utilities: Ask for a denial letter and a list of partner agencies; call 211 to locate SVDP, church benevolence funds, and smaller community ministries for your ZIP. (myunitedway.com)
• Food: Ask MFN (601‑353‑7286) or Feeding the Gulf Coast (888‑704‑3663) for the next mobile distribution day near you. (msfoodnet.org, feedingthegulfcoast.org)
• Safety: If your local shelter is full, the hotline can help you safety‑plan to stay with trusted family/church friends and arrange transport to an open bed in another county. (msc4vp.org, gccfn.org)
• Legal: If one office is booked, ask for the next clinic date and request a warm transfer to another provider (MVLP, MCJ, or a law school clinic). (msreentryguide.com, mscenterforjustice.org)

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Real‑world examples

• Coast rent shutoff averted: A single mom in Gulfport called Back Bay Mission on a Thursday at 9 a.m., got a screening slot, submitted her ledger and disconnect notice, and received utility assistance paid directly to the provider while starting budgeting coaching at the Micah Day Center. (mscoastchamber.com)
• Jackson custody help on a budget: A mom needed custody advice and couldn’t afford a retainer. She scheduled a $10 consult at Mission First Legal Aid, received guidance and document prep help, and was referred to a pro bono attorney for the hearing. (missionfirst.org)
• Food during a tough month: A family in Hattiesburg used Edwards Street Fellowship Center’s pantry (serving multiple counties), then followed MFN guidance for nearby distributions the following week. (ampleharvest.org, msfoodnet.org)

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Jackson‑based guaranteed income (private philanthropy)

• Magnolia Mother’s Trust (Springboard to Opportunities): offers selected Jackson moms in subsidized housing $1,000/monthfor12months\ast \ast plusa\ast \ast$1,000 529 deposit per child; cohorts are limited and selected; no public application link year‑round. Read program details and reports here. (springboardto.org)

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Regional resource snapshots

Central MS (Jackson and nearby)

• Salvation Army Jackson (appointments Mon 8:30 a.m.): 601‑982‑4881 ext. 0. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Stewpot Community Services: 601‑353‑2759, 1100 W Capitol St. (stewpot.org)
• Mission First Legal Aid: 601‑608‑0056. (missionfirst.org)
• Good Samaritan Center: 601‑355‑6276. (goodsamaritancenter.org)
• We Will Go Ministries (food): 601‑398‑2410. (wewillgo.org)

Gulf Coast & South MS

• Back Bay Mission: 228‑432‑0301; call Thu 9 a.m. for next‑week emergency services. (mscoastchamber.com)
• Catholic Charities of South MS: 228‑701‑0555, 1450 North St., Gulfport. (catholiccharitiesofsouthms.org)
• Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence: 800‑800‑1396. (mscoastchamber.com)
• Feeding the Gulf Coast: 888‑704‑3663. (feedingthegulfcoast.org)
• Feed My Sheep: 228‑864‑2701. (freefood.org)

Pine Belt (Hattiesburg area)

• Edwards Street Fellowship Center (pantry): 601‑544‑6149. (ampleharvest.org)
• Christian Services, Inc. (soup kitchen & outreach): see United Way of Southeast Mississippi partners. (unitedwaysems.org)

Northeast MS (Tupelo/Lee and surrounding)

• United Way of Northeast Mississippi (referrals): 662‑841‑9133. (unitedwaynems.org)
• North MS Rural Legal Services (intake): 800‑498‑1804. (nmrls.com)

Choctaw Tribal Communities

• Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians—Family & Community Services: 601‑650‑1778; 24/7 crisis 601‑663‑7851. (choctaw.org)

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Tips that save time

• Be phone‑ready on Mondays (especially for Salvation Army). If you have no minutes, ask a library or a church to help you place the call at the right time. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Ask for “warm transfers.” Many front desks will call a partner agency for you while you’re there.
• Keep a ready‑to‑send photo album on your phone with pictures of your ID, lease, ledger, notice, and last two pay stubs.
• Always ask for a denial letter; other agencies often require it.

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10 Mississippi‑specific FAQs

1. I got an eviction notice—who can act fastest?

• Start with Salvation Army serving your county (Jackson area: call Mon 8:30 a.m.). On the Coast, call Back Bay Mission Thursday 9 a.m. for an Emergency Services slot. Ask both for a list of partners if funds are out. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org, hancockhrc.org)

2. My power will be cut tomorrow—can anyone stop it?

• Call your Salvation Army office at opening time; ask your utility for a one‑time medical or hardship extension; ask 211 for churches that issue same‑day pledges. On the Coast, Back Bay Mission can help with utilities if funding is open. (guidestar.org)

3. I’m in danger at home—what do I do tonight with my kids?

• Call the 24/7 hotline for your region (e.g., 800‑266‑4198 Central; 800‑800‑1396 Coast; 601‑693‑4673 East). They will plan a safe exit and place you in shelter if available. (msc4vp.org, mscoastchamber.com, carelodge.com)

4. Where can I get interview clothes in Jackson?

• Dress for Success Metro Jackson (by appointment; 601‑364‑1722) provides suiting and job readiness. Goodwill career centers provide affordable options and coaching. (metrojackson.dressforsuccess.org, goodwillms.org)

5. I need free legal advice about custody and can’t afford a retainer.

• Book with Mission First Legal Aid (601‑608‑0056, $10 consult if eligible). If they’re full, call 800‑498‑1804 for the statewide legal aid intake line. (missionfirst.org, mscenterforlegalservices.org)

6. I live in Hattiesburg—who has reliable pantry hours?

• Edwards Street Fellowship Center (1919 Edwards St., 601‑544‑6149) serves multiple counties; verify hours before you go. (ampleharvest.org)

7. Is there utility help for people with disabilities?

• Entergy’s Power to Care offers emergency bill help for older adults and customers with disabilities through local nonprofits (availability varies). (entergy.com)

8. I need a low‑cost medical/dental clinic in Jackson.

• Mission First operates free/low‑cost medical and dental clinics (call 601‑919‑4136 for clinic scheduling). (missionfirst.org)

9. My landlord won’t take a pledge—can a charity still help?

• Ask the charity to pay part of arrears plus late fees if allowed, or to issue a landlord letter confirming payment is pending; some will only pay after a W‑9 is on file. If the landlord refuses, ask for prevention case management and a relocation deposit elsewhere.

10. Is there any cash program for moms in Jackson?

• The philanthropy‑funded Magnolia Mother’s Trust sometimes runs new cohorts (not year‑round applications). It has provided $1,000/month for 12 months to selected moms in subsidized housing; check Springboard to Opportunities for updates. (springboardto.org)

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Resources by category (scan and click)

• Salvation Army (Jackson area social services & shelter) — Salvation Army Jackson Social Services page — 601‑982‑4881; 110 Presto Ln., Jackson. Appointments line opens Mondays 8:30 a.m.. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Back Bay Mission — Back Bay Mission (Biloxi) overview & hours — 228‑432‑0301; 1012 Division St., Biloxi. Emergency Services call‑in Thu 9 a.m.. (mscoastchamber.com)
• Catholic Charities, Inc. (Diocese of Jackson) — Community Assistance programs — 601‑355‑8634; 850 E River Pl., Ste. 300, Jackson. DV/Sexual Assault lines 601‑366‑0222 / 800‑273‑9012. (catholiccharitiesjackson.org)
• Catholic Charities of South Mississippi — Contact & programs — 228‑701‑0555; 1450 North St., Gulfport. (catholiccharitiesofsouthms.org)
• United Way 211 Mississippi — 211 Mississippi Helpline — Dial 211 or 866‑472‑8265 (backup). (myunitedway.com)
• Mississippi Food Network — Find Food & hotline — 601‑353‑7286; P.O. Box 411, Jackson, MS 39205. (msfoodnet.org)
• Feeding the Gulf Coast — Find help now — 888‑704‑3663. (feedingthegulfcoast.org)
• Extra Table — About and statewide partners — statewide food supply partner. (extratable.org)
• Mission First (legal, clinics, after‑school) — Locations & contacts — Legal Aid: 601‑608‑0056. Clinics: 601‑919‑4136. (missionfirst.org)
• Stewpot Community Services — Programs & contact — 601‑353‑2759; 1100 W Capitol St., Jackson. Housing Assistance office M–F 8–4. (stewpot.org)
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services / North MS Rural Legal Services — MCLSC locations / NMRLS intake & offices — Intake 800‑498‑1804. (mscenterforlegalservices.org, nmrls.com)
• Mississippi Center for Justice — Housing/fair housing — Jackson office 601‑352‑2269. (mscenterforjustice.org)
• Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence — Programs & legal clinic — 24/7 800‑800‑1396. (gccfn.org)
• Care Lodge — Contact & crisis line — 24/7 601‑693‑4673. (carelodge.com)
• Safe Haven (Columbus/NE MS) — Program & crisis lines — DV crisis 662‑327‑6040; crisis 800‑890‑6040. (mssafehaven.com)
• Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence — Statewide referrals & legal services — 800‑898‑3234. (msdh.ms.gov)
• Dress for Success Metro Jackson — Contact & hours — 601‑364‑1722. (metrojackson.dressforsuccess.org)
• Goodwill of Mississippi — Career Centers & locations — Jacksonian Plaza 601‑853‑8110. (goodwillms.org)
• We Will Go Ministries (food) — Food program & contact — 601‑398‑2410. (wewillgo.org)
• Feed My Sheep (Gulfport) — Hours & contact — 228‑864‑2701; 2615 19th St. (feedmysheepgulfport.org)
• Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians — Family & Community Services — main 601‑650‑1778; 24/7 crisis 601‑663‑7851. (choctaw.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Mississippi Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits. This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

• Program funding, hours, and rules change frequently. Always confirm by phone or on the official website before traveling.
• Safety: If you fear harm, call 911. For confidential planning, use the 24/7 hotlines listed above.
• Health information is general and not medical advice.
• We work to keep this page secure. Do not share sensitive information (SSNs, bank details) by text or email unless you’re on a verified secure portal of the agency.

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Full resource list (clickable, with phones and addresses)

• Salvation Army Jackson Social Services — Rent/utility appointments and Center of Hope — 601‑982‑4881; 110 Presto Ln., Jackson, MS 39206. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Catholic Charities, Inc. (Jackson) — Community Assistance & Jackson Victim Services — 601‑355‑8634; 850 E River Pl., Ste. 300, Jackson, MS 39202. DV/SA lines 601‑366‑0222 / 800‑273‑9012. (catholiccharitiesjackson.org)
• Catholic Charities of South Mississippi — Programs & contact — 228‑701‑0555; 1450 North St., Gulfport, MS 39501. (catholiccharitiesofsouthms.org)
• United Way 211 Mississippi — Get connected. Get help. — Dial 211 or 866‑472‑8265 (backup). (myunitedway.com)
• Back Bay Mission — Hours & services — 228‑432‑0301; 1012 Division St., Biloxi, MS 39530. (mscoastchamber.com)
• Mississippi Food Network — Find Food & hotline — 601‑353‑7286; P.O. Box 411, Jackson, MS 39205. (msfoodnet.org)
• Feeding the Gulf Coast — Find food assistance — 888‑704‑3663. (feedingthegulfcoast.org)
• Extra Table — Statewide food supply partner — statewide network. (extratable.org)
• Mission First Legal Aid & Clinics — Locations & numbers — Legal Aid 601‑608‑0056; Clinics 601‑919‑4136; 858 North St., Jackson, MS 39202. (missionfirst.org)
• Stewpot Community Services — Programs & contact — 601‑353‑2759; 1100 W Capitol St., Jackson, MS 39203. (stewpot.org)
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services — Locations — Intake 800‑498‑1804; Jackson office 414 S State St., Ste. 300. (mscenterforlegalservices.org)
• North Mississippi Rural Legal Services — Intake & offices — 800‑498‑1804; Admin: 493 Ryland Way, Oxford, MS. (nmrls.com)
• Mississippi Center for Justice — Housing & fair housing — 601‑352‑2269; 5 Old River Pl., Ste. 203, Jackson, MS 39202. (mscenterforjustice.org)
• Center for Violence Prevention — Programs & hotlines — Crisis 800‑266‑4198 / 601‑932‑4198; PO Box 6279, Pearl, MS 39288. (msc4vp.org)
• Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence — Programs & Northcutt Legal Clinic — Crisis 800‑800‑1396; PO Box 333, Biloxi, MS 39533. (gccfn.org)
• Care Lodge — Contact — Crisis 601‑693‑4673; 1627 23rd Ave., Meridian, MS 39301. (carelodge.com)
• Safe Haven, Inc. — Services & hotlines — Crisis 800‑890‑6040; PO Box 5354, Columbus, MS 39704. (mssafehaven.com)
• Dress for Success Metro Jackson — Contact & appointments — 601‑364‑1722; Jackson Medical Mall, 350 W Woodrow Wilson Ave., Ste. 3410, Jackson, MS 39213. (metrojackson.dressforsuccess.org)
• Goodwill of Mississippi — Career Centers & locations — main 601‑853‑8110; Jacksonian Plaza, 4950 I‑55 N, Jackson, MS 39211. (goodwillms.org)
• We Will Go Ministries — Food program — 601‑398‑2410; 806 N Farish St., Jackson, MS 39202. (wewillgo.org)
• Feed My Sheep — Contact & hours — 228‑864‑2701; 2615 19th St., Gulfport, MS 39501. (feedmysheepgulfport.org)
• Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians—Family & Community Services — Programs & crisis line — 601‑650‑1778; 24/7 crisis 601‑663‑7851; 124 Industrial Extension, Choctaw, MS 39350. (choctaw.org)

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Helpful data notes

• Persons in poverty in Mississippi: 18.0% (2019–2023 ACS estimate). (census.gov)
• 211 Mississippi averages thousands of monthly requests; 44% of calls concern rent/utilities. (myunitedway.com)
• Extra Table reports ~1.3 million pounds distributed in 2024. (extratable.org)

If you hit a closed door, don’t stop. Call 211 and ask for a navigator to stay on the line with you while they connect you to the next agency. That warm handoff saves time and stress.

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Learn more:

1. Trafficking | Domestic | Sexual violence | Center for Violence Prevention | MS
2. Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence | Human Services – Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce, Inc., MS
3. https://www.gccfn.org/wordpress/northcutt-legal-clinic/
4. Care Lodge Domestic Violence Shelter | Meridian | Mississippi
5. Safe Haven Inc.
6. 211 Mississippi Helpline | United Way of the Capital Area, Inc
7. FAQs
8. https://www.msfoodnet.org/contact/
9. Find help here.
10. Social Services – Jackson MS Corps
11. Back Bay Mission | Non-Profit – Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce, Inc., MS
12. Hancock County Community Service Guide
13. Legal Aid | Mission First
14. Goodwill Career Centers | Goodwill of Mississippi
15. Contact | Dress for Success Metro Jackson
16. U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Mississippi
17. Children living in single-parent families | KIDS COUNT Data Center
18. Locations – Mississippi Center for Legal Services
19. North Mississippi Rural Legal Services
20. Jackson MS Corps Admin Office and Center of Hope | Salvation Army Administrative Offices
21. Back Bay Mission – GuideStar Profile
22. Catholic Social and Community Services, Biloxi – Catholic Charities USA
23. https://www.gccfn.org/wordpress/programs/
24. Contact – Good Samaritan Center
25. Statewide Resources – Mississippi State Department of Health
26. Catholic Charities Diocese of Jackson – Catholic Charities USA
27. Community Assistance | Catholic Charities
28. Catholic Charities of South Mississippi
29. Abuse Intervention | Catholic Charities
30. Lay Organizations | Catholic Diocese of Biloxi | Biloxi, Mississippi
31. Contact Us | Mission First | Jackson, MS
32. Stewpot Community Services
33. Legal Clinic — Stewpot Community Services
34. Housing Stability | Springboard to Opportunities
35. Home | Extra Table FEEDS
36. Essential Food — We Will Go
37. https://www.msfoodnet.org/location/we-will-go-ministries/
38. Feed My Sheep – FreeFood.org
39. Contact Us | Feed My Sheep
40. Edwards Street Fellowship Center – AmpleHarvest.org
41. Contact Us
42. Career Centers powered by Goodwill Industries of South Mississippi
43. What We Do | Mississippi Center for Justice
44. Capital/Central Region Court ∕ Legal Services | Mississippi Reentry Resource Guide
45. What you should know about 2-1-1 | United Way of Southeast Mississippi
46. The Power to Care – Entergy
47. Department of Family and Community Services – Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians
48. Adrienne’s House – Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence in Pascagoula, MS
49. Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence | Protect Our Defenders
50. Magnolia Mother’s Trust | Springboard to Opportunities
51. Contact — Stewpot Community Services
52. Community Resiliency | United Way of Southeast Mississippi
53. Contact – unitedwaynems.org
54. Contact Care Lodge Domestic Violence Shelter | Meridian, MS

🏛️More Mississippi Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Mississippi

• 📋 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
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🎯 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