Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Mississippi

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, Mississippi‑specific guide to getting online, finding low‑cost devices, learning the skills employers want, and keeping your power and water on while you stabilize. You’ll find clear steps, real contacts, and backup plans. If a link here opens a door for you, use it—every program mentioned includes a direct, descriptive link you can tap. For statewide broadband build‑out updates and public Wi‑Fi projects, start with the state’s broadband office, the Broadband Expansion and Accessibility of Mississippi (BEAM), and its current grant updates through BEAM’s site on MS.gov. (ms.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

• Apply for Lifeline now: Use the USAC National Verifier to check eligibility and apply for the $9.25monthlydiscount(upto$34.25 on Tribal lands) on phone or internet, then pick a provider near you via Companies Near Me. If a rep offers “ACP,” that program ended—report fake ACP sign‑ups to the FCC ACP page. (usac.org)
• Stop an electric or gas shutoff today: Call your utility and state your rights under the Mississippi Public Service Commission (MPSC) Bill of Rights, ask for a medical‑need hold if applicable, and request a payment plan. If an Excessive Heat Warning or Freeze Warning is active, disconnections must pause; learn the rule details at LII’s Mississippi Admin Code 39‑3‑1‑8. (psc.ms.gov)
• Book a same‑week spot to get online and print/scan: Use library computers and Wi‑Fi at Jackson/Hinds Library System branches, then ask staff about device loans, printing, and tutoring; find more statewide support via the Mississippi Library Commission help desk. If you need a resume or job search jumpstart, visit your nearest MDES WIN Job Center for free computer access. (jhlibrary.org)

Quick Help Box – Keep These Five Contacts Handy

• MPSC Consumer Lines: Call your district office from the MPSC contact page for shutoff disputes; rules and temperature protections live in the MPSC Bill of Rights; the winter/heat exceptions are summarized at the LIHEAP Clearinghouse. (psc.ms.gov)
• LIHEAP energy help: Apply through MDHS LIHEAP on AccessMS; for questions call MDHS Community Services; crisis timelines and benefit caps appear at the LIHEAP Clearinghouse (MS profile). (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Internet/phone discount (Lifeline): Apply at USAC National Verifier; program basics and Tribal benefit are on the FCC Lifeline page and USAC Tribal Lifeline. (usac.org)
• Free in‑person digital access: Find a computer lab via MDES WIN Job Centers and public PCs at Jackson/Hinds Library System; statewide library support is through the Mississippi Library Commission. (mdes.ms.gov)
• 2‑1‑1 referrals: Dial 2‑1‑1 for local help, or use the coast‑to‑coast United Way 211 directory; South MS residents can use United Way of Southeast Mississippi 211. (unitedwayhelps.org)

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What changed and why this guide matters now

Mississippi is scaling broadband through BEAM grants and the federal BEAD program, but some digital‑equity funding streams were terminated in 2025, which makes knowing the working programs and the backup routes essential. Track BEAM’s application windows and public Wi‑Fi awards on BEAM’s BEAD Application page and official Governor press releases. When you see ACP mentioned, ignore old ads: the Affordable Connectivity Program ended enrollments on February 7, 2024 and fully ended benefits by June 1, 2024—learn the timeline and beware of fake sign‑ups at the FCC ACP page. (beam.ms.gov)

Reality check: Some digital‑equity grants that would have funded local training were halted nationally; Mississippi’s state office notes the termination of the Digital Skills & Accessibility grant. That means more reliance on libraries, community colleges, WIN Job Centers, Goodwill career centers, and nonprofit refurbishers—plan around that shift and confirm class schedules before traveling. For current state updates, monitor BEAM’s Digital Skills & Accessibility page and training opportunities via MDES and Goodwill of Mississippi. (beam.ms.gov)

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How to get online this week in Mississippi

Start here with the program that still exists statewide and can lower your monthly cost.

Step 1 – Apply for Lifeline: The federal Lifeline benefit is $9.25permonthoffvoiceorinternetservice(orabundle);onfederallyrecognizedTriballands,it’supto$34.25. Check eligibility and apply through the USAC National Verifier, then choose a carrier using Companies Near Me. Program rules and survivor protections under the Safe Connections Act are posted on the FCC Lifeline page. (usac.org)

Step 2 – Pick a low‑cost plan: Once approved, compare carriers that offer entry‑level low‑income plans. Examples serving Mississippi include Access from AT&T (income ≤ 200% FPL, many public‑benefit qualifiers) and Spectrum Internet Assist (up to 50 Mbps for $25/month; add Wi‑Fi if needed). Availability varies by address; confirm speeds and fees on each provider’s site. If you’re in a C Spire fixed‑wireless area, check C Spire 5G Home Internet for a non‑contract home option. (att.com)

Step 3 – Avoid ACP scams: Any site that asks for your SSN to “enroll you in ACP” is a red flag. The FCC warns that ACP ended; file complaints and identity‑theft steps via the FCC ACP resource and the FCC ACP consumer alert. If you shared personal data after Feb. 8, 2024, follow the FCC’s advice and act fast. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your current carrier and ask for any “low‑income” or “retention” plans now that ACP ended; many carriers still have internal discount tiers. If coverage is poor at your home, ask your library about hotspot loans and check BEAM’s ongoing public Wi‑Fi grants. For Tribal members, ask your local office about the enhanced Lifeline Tribal benefit and current buildouts under the NTIA Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program. (benton.org)

Quick table: Low‑cost internet options you can use with or without Lifeline

Each plan’s speed/price can vary by address and funding; verify before ordering. (usac.org)

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Devices: Where to get a reliable computer, hotspot, or accessibility tech

If a laptop would change your life, there are reputable, Mississippi‑friendly refurbishers and assistive‑tech programs that ship statewide and verify eligibility with simple documents.

Start with low‑cost refurbishers: PCs for People sells refurbished desktops/laptops, internet, and hotspots to households under 200% FPL or on certain benefits; see the 2025 income chart on the eligibility page, then upload your proof and order online. Human‑I‑T offers discounted internet and devices for low‑income members and one‑on‑one digital‑coach support; membership rules and post‑ACP pricing are posted on their FAQ and Terms pages. (pcsforpeople.org)

Check local lending and printing: Get free computer time and paid printing at Jackson/Hinds Library System branches; ask about time limits, guest passes, and mobile printing. For statewide reference, reach the Mississippi Library Commission help desk (ask for Talking Book Services or tech services if you need accessibility); many local systems run computer basics, e‑book help, and homework support. (jhlibrary.org)

Assistive technology if you or your child has a disability: Mississippi’s Project START (through the Department of Rehabilitation Services) runs device demonstration, short‑term loans, and reutilization for assistive tech, including screen readers, AAC, and adapted input—request services online or call 1‑601‑853‑5249. If you are blind or have low vision, ask the Mississippi Library Commission Talking Book Services for free audio and braille materials by mail and player devices. (mdrs.ms.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call MDES WIN Job Centers for public computers and printing, and ask a staffer to help you set up a free Gmail and cloud storage so you can work anywhere. If cost is still the blocker, ask school counselors about device checkouts and ask your county’s Community Action Agency for a CSBG referral to cover a device so you can enroll in work or training. (mdes.ms.gov)

Table: Trusted device and accessibility sources

Program rules change with funding—confirm before applying. (pcsforpeople.org)

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Where to build job‑ready digital skills in Mississippi

You don’t need a four‑year degree to boost your pay. Mississippi offers free or low‑cost classes focused on email, online safety, Word/Excel, and basic troubleshooting.

First stop – WIN Job Centers and the MS Works app: Find your WIN Job Center and register in MS Works; you can use in‑center computers, get resume help, and see free hiring events. If you need language support or TTY, MDES posts Language Assistance and TTY details on its site; you can also call 1‑888‑844‑3577 for interpreter help. (mdes.ms.gov)

Library and community classes: Ask your local branch about computer basics, online applications, and printable certificates; in Hinds County, public PCs and printing details are on the JHLS public computers page. For statewide support (including large print or Talking Book Services), call the Mississippi Library Commission reference line and ask about technology help. (jhlibrary.org)

College and extension programs built for busy parents: See Hinds Community College Adult Education for digital skills tied to the GED/HiSET and job pathways; many programs blend online and in‑person. For very first‑step classes, MSU Extension “Computer 101” offers short courses on mouse/keyboard, Office, and search skills, and can point you to county offerings. (hindscc.edu)

Goodwill career centers: Goodwill of Mississippi runs free digital‑literacy sessions, Google AI Essentials, resume clinics, and career coaching at centers in Greenville, Richland, and Jackson (opening). Call 1‑601‑853‑8110 to book times that fit your child‑care schedule. (goodwillms.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county’s Community Action Agency for a short‑term voucher (CSBG) to cover gas, child care copays, or a basic device that keeps you enrolled. If traveling is hard, try free self‑paced lessons with the digital navigator approach from the national NDIA and ask your library if a digital navigator partner is available locally. (mdhs.ms.gov)

Table: Skills training you can start quickly

Confirm dates and childcare availability before traveling. (mdes.ms.gov)

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How to stop utility shutoff in Mississippi today

If a shutoff notice hits your mailbox, act the same day and use the state rules to buy time.

Call your utility and assert your rights: Under the MPSC Bill of Rights, no disconnection may occur on weekends/holidays, and a doctor’s letter can pause shutoff for 60 days if losing service would be life‑threatening. If the National Weather Service issues a Freeze Warning (gas/electric) or Excessive Heat Warning (electric), disconnections must pause. If a temperature hold applies, say so on the call and request a same‑call payment plan. (psc.ms.gov)

Know the 5‑day written notice rule: State utility rules require at least five days’ written notice before an actual cutoff date; the definitions and exceptions are in Mississippi Admin Code 39‑3‑1‑8. Ask for levelized billing and a deferred payment plan, and document every call with date/time and agent name. (law.cornell.edu)

Use LIHEAP and crisis pathways: Apply for MDHS LIHEAP on AccessMS; seniors, people with disabilities, and households with kids under 5 should get an appointment within 30 business days, others within 45 days. For a non‑life‑threatening crisis (like a cutoff notice), the LIHEAP Clearinghouse notes Mississippi must address it within 48 hours after approval; crisis benefits can be up to $1,500, subject to funding. (mdhs.ms.gov)

Jackson Water Bill Help (JXN Water): If you receive SNAP, JXN Water’s SNAP customer class sets a reduced $10monthlyavailabilitychargeinsteadof$40; call 1‑601‑500‑5200 and upload proof on the SNAP assistance page. Payment plans up to 12 months are available through the portal and by phone. (jxnwater.com)

Hattiesburg Water & Sewer: Start service and manage bills through the city’s Water & Sewer page; the office number is 1‑601‑545‑4634, and there’s a $75 new‑customer deposit with listed minimum monthly rates. Ask about bank draft and drop‑box locations to avoid late fees. (hattiesburgms.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your district MPSC office, reference the Bill of Rights temperature and medical protections, and request intervention. Also contact 2‑1‑1 for emergency aid referrals and ask your utility about in‑house funds, like Entergy’s “The Power to Care”; Entergy posts bill‑help and payment‑arrangement options online. (psc.ms.gov)

Table: Mississippi shutoff protections you can cite on the phone

Keep copies of notices and doctor letters. (psc.ms.gov)

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Mississippi‑specific internet expansion: what’s coming and how to benefit

The state broadband office, BEAM, is pushing buildouts with Capital Projects Fund awards and BEAD applications. In February 2025, the state announced 12 new broadband projects across 12 counties; BEAM also approved public Wi‑Fi micro‑grants. Follow BEAD application windows and webinars on the BEAM BEAD Application page; read recaps and county lists in the Governor’s news releases and the Benton Institute brief. (governorreeves.ms.gov)

Reality check: The state’s Digital Skills & Accessibility capacity grants were terminated at the federal level in 2025. That may delay some free class expansions and navigator roles—prioritize libraries, WIN Job Centers, community colleges, and Goodwill while the dust settles. Watch BEAM’s Digital Skills & Accessibility page for updates and coach placements. (beam.ms.gov)

Also note a nationwide 2025 Supreme Court ruling that preserves the FCC’s Universal Service Fund, which underpins Lifeline—important for keeping low‑income phone/internet discounts alive while ACP is gone. Details appear in coverage from Reuters and The Verge. (reuters.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your road is still unserved, submit a location challenge and speed test through BEAM’s mapping tools (posted on BEAM’s site). Ask your electric cooperative if a BEAD or CPF project is planned on your road, and ask your county board to support line‑extension grants when BEAM opens local match programs. (beam.ms.gov)

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Diverse Communities: tailored tips and contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: For tech‑safety planning around harassment, use the NNEDV Safety Net guides and the Tech Safety site. For statewide community support and micro‑grants that sometimes include digital‑access help, follow the LGBTQ Fund of Mississippi. If housing discrimination intersects with your safety plan, SAGE lists LGBTQ+ housing resources in Mississippi and posts the HUD Jackson Field Office number (1‑601‑965‑4757). (nnedv.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request a device loan or demo from Project START for assistive technology, and ask the Mississippi Library Commission – Talking Book Services about audio players and large print. If employment is the goal, apply with the MDRS Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) and note 2025 policy changes that include a financial‑needs analysis for certain services; ask for accommodations in large print or by TTY/Relay 711 through Mississippi Relay. (mdrs.ms.gov)

Veteran single mothers: If you receive VA care, ask your provider to place a Digital Divide Consult so VA can loan you an internet‑connected tablet for telehealth and help with connectivity costs through carrier partnerships. For benefits and local claims help, connect with the Mississippi Veterans Affairs benefits specialists nearest you; they can also point you to on‑base ATLAS telehealth sites. (telehealth.va.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: For affordable legal guidance and community education, call Catholic Charities—Migrant Support Center at 1‑601‑948‑2635 and ask if a Jackson or Northeast MS appointment is available. For worker and family rights, contact the Mississippi Immigrants Rights Alliance (MIRA) offices in Jackson or Biloxi; they provide Know‑Your‑Rights sessions and may connect you to ESL and digital basics. For state benefits offices, MDHS posts language access and nondiscrimination information and can arrange interpreters. (catholiccharitiesjackson.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: Households on the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians’ lands qualify for the Lifeline Tribal benefit (up to $34.25/month). The Tribe received federal NTIA Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program funding to expand fiber; check the MBCI website for department contacts and watch NTIA’s updates on awards. For state buildouts crossing county lines, monitor BEAM and county announcements. (lifelinesupport.org)

Rural single moms with limited access: If you’re 20+ miles from a college or library, call your WIN Job Center to ask about transportation vouchers or remote options, and ask your library for hotspot loans if available. For phone calls when hearing access is needed, use Mississippi Relay 711; for Spanish or Vietnamese interpreter help with job services, use MDES Language Assistance. (mdes.ms.gov)

Single fathers: All programs here are gender‑neutral. For safety concerns and protective orders, reach the Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence (MCADV) and the National Domestic Violence Hotline; both can safety‑plan around digital abuse and account sharing. For child‑care tuition aid during training time, see the reopening MDHS Child Care Payment Program (CCPP) updates and waitlist invitations. (mcadv.org)

Language access and accessibility: Ask any agency for “free interpreter services”—MDES posts a Language Assistance line (1‑888‑844‑3577). If you use TTY or need voice carry‑over, dial 711 to reach Mississippi Relay; agencies should take relay calls. For written materials, the Mississippi Library Commission can supply large print and Talking Book Services upon request. (mdes.ms.gov)

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Resources by Region (examples you can call first)

Jackson Metro (Hinds/Rankin/Madison): Use Jackson/Hinds Library System for public PCs and printing; ask JXN Water billing about the SNAP customer class and payment plans; for job labs and hiring events, browse MDES WIN Job Centers. For digital‑skills classes and certifications, check Hinds Community College Adult Education. (jhlibrary.org)

Gulf Coast (Harrison/Jackson/Hancock): For water or sewer issues, contact your city billing office; in Gulfport, check city utilities through City Hall and call your power company for arrangements. For violence‑prevention support that includes safety‑tech planning, MCADV lists shelters like the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence; for referrals, call United Way 211 for coast‑specific resources. (mcadv.org)

Delta (Bolivar/Coahoma/Washington): Need energy help? Apply via MDHS LIHEAP and choose your local Community Action Agency from the MDHS list (e.g., Hinds County HRA or Coahoma Opportunities). For discount devices, order from PCs for People and ask your library about printers and guest passes. (mdhs.ms.gov)

North Mississippi (DeSoto/Tate/Lafayette/Lee): For shutoff holds during extreme heat or freeze, cite the MPSC Bill of Rights and MAC 39‑3‑1‑8 with your local utility. For computer labs and short digital classes, contact WIN Job Centers and the nearest library system; for specialized disability tech, call Project START for a device loan. (psc.ms.gov)

Pine Belt (Forrest/Lamar/Marion): Hattiesburg residents can manage bills and deposits at the city’s Water & Sewer page; for job skills and online classes, see Hinds CC online learning and area WIN Job Centers. If you need a quick skills boost, book a session at Goodwill of Mississippi Richland or Jackson centers. (hattiesburgms.com)

Reality check: County‑to‑county variations are real—printing costs, hotspot loans, City Hall deposits, winter shutoff procedures, and nonprofit capacity all differ. Confirm by phone before driving, and ask to speak to a supervisor if a frontline clerk doesn’t know the updated policy. Keep the MPSC Bill of Rights link and your LIHEAP appointment letter handy. (psc.ms.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Assuming ACP still exists: ACP ended. If a site asks for your SSN to “activate ACP,” it’s likely a scam—use the FCC ACP resource to report it. Pair Lifeline with a low‑income plan instead. (fcc.gov)
• Waiting too long to claim a medical‑need hold: A doctor’s letter can pause shutoff for 60 days; tell the agent you’re invoking the MPSC medical hold and submit the form the same day. (psc.ms.gov)
• Not bringing documents to LIHEAP: Bring ID for adults, proof of income (last 30 days), Social Security numbers, and your current bill. Appointment windows are 30–45 business days depending on your household; don’t miss your slot. Use MDHS LIHEAP’s required‑docs list to prep. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Skipping library help: Librarians will help you print, scan, and upload job documents; in Hinds County, PC time and printing fees are posted on the JHLS computers page, and statewide help lines sit at the Mississippi Library Commission. (jhlibrary.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Verify prices/eligibility before applying; funding and availability change. (usac.org)

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Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)

• Photo ID: Driver’s license or state ID for adults; if none, bring two alternative IDs as listed on MDHS CCPP or LIHEAP pages.
• Proof of address: Current bill, lease, or letter as accepted by MDHS LIHEAP; for JXN Water, your account info from the JXN Water portal.
• Proof of income (last 30 days): Pay stubs, benefits award letters; follow MDHS LIHEAP rules to avoid delays.
• Program eligibility: SNAP/Medicaid/SSI letters for Lifeline and Access from AT&T; bring your case number.
• Utility notice: Cutoff or past‑due bill to trigger crisis pathways under LIHEAP and to negotiate with your utility.
• Doctor letter (if applicable): A licensed physician’s note for the 60‑day hold under the MPSC medical exception.
• Email & phone: Create a Gmail at the library; add a voicemail PIN. WIN Job Center staff can help per MDES guidance.
• Backups: Photos of all documents stored in your cloud drive; librarians and WIN Job Centers can help you upload and print. (mdhs.ms.gov)

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If your application gets denied

Lifeline: Appeal with USAC Lifeline Support, upload clearer income proofs, and re‑check your address format; if you live with relatives, complete the household worksheet. If you’re on Tribal lands, make sure the address reflects that for the enhanced benefit. (usac.org)

LIHEAP: Ask your Community Action Agency for the denial reason in writing and file a reconsideration with any missing documentation. Use the MDHS Community Services number (1‑800‑421‑0762) if you can’t reach your local office, and ask a nonprofit (211) to fax documents. (mdhs.ms.gov)

Utilities: If a utility refuses to honor a temperature or medical hold, call the MPSC district office and reference Bill of Rights sections on heat/freeze and medical exceptions; file a complaint if needed. Keep your doctor letter and cutoff notice handy. (psc.ms.gov)

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Local organizations, charities, churches, and support groups

• United Way 211: Get local referrals for rent, utilities, devices, and classes via United Way 211 or the South MS United Way of Southeast Mississippi 211 page; they can conference in your utility or CAA. (unitedwayhelps.org)
• MCADV + shelters: For safety planning, legal clinics, and shelter connections, start with MCADV and the National DV Hotline; many member programs help survivors lock down accounts and devices. (mcadv.org)
• Catholic Charities (Migrant Support Center): For immigrant families needing legal or social‑service navigation, see Migrant Support Center services; ask about ESL and digital basics referrals. (catholiccharitiesjackson.org)
• Goodwill of Mississippi: Free digital skills, Google AI Essentials, and job‑search labs at Goodwill Career Centers; coaching can include email setup, resume building, and LinkedIn basics. (goodwillms.org)

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Frequently asked questions (Mississippi‑specific)

Is the Affordable Connectivity Program still available in Mississippi: No. ACP stopped new enrollments on February 7, 2024 and ended the benefit by June 1, 2024. Use Lifeline and carrier low‑income plans instead; report fake ACP sites via the FCC ACP resource. (fcc.gov)

How much help can LIHEAP provide right now: The LIHEAP Clearinghouse lists Mississippi’s FY2025 max benefit at $1,500forheating/coolingand$1,500 for crisis, subject to funding and local policy; apply on MDHS LIHEAP and expect 30–45 business days for an appointment letter. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

Can a medical letter really stop a shutoff: Yes—state rules allow a 60‑day hold with a licensed physician’s certification that loss of service is life‑threatening. Ask your utility for the form and cite the MPSC Bill of Rights. (psc.ms.gov)

How do I find a public computer or hotspot loan: Start with your local library’s public PC page—Hinds County’s JHLS computers page lists time limits and printing fees. For statewide support and accessible services, call the Mississippi Library Commission. (jhlibrary.org)

Where can I learn computer basics quickly: Try MSU Extension’s Computer 101 for a short, beginner‑friendly workshop; combine with free labs at WIN Job Centers or digital classes at Goodwill of Mississippi. (extension.msstate.edu)

I’m a veteran. Can VA help me get online for telehealth: Yes. Ask your VA provider for a Digital Divide Consult; VA can loan an internet‑enabled tablet and partners with carriers to waive data charges for VA Video Connect. (telehealth.va.gov)

I live on Choctaw Tribal lands—do I get extra help: Yes. The Lifeline Tribal benefit increases the monthly discount up to $34.25, and the Tribe has federal broadband grants building out fiber. Check MBCI for updates and NTIA Tribal Broadband Connectivity news. (lifelinesupport.org)

Who can help if I don’t speak English well: MDES offers Language Assistance at 1‑888‑844‑3577, and MDHS posts nondiscrimination and language services info. For calls with hearing/speech needs, dial 711 for Mississippi Relay. (mdes.ms.gov)

How do I print a resume if I don’t own a printer: Use library printers (see JHLS for costs) or WIN Job Centers for resume support. If you need a USB drive, ask staff to save to the cloud so you can retrieve files anywhere. (jhlibrary.org)

Is there any good news about long‑term affordability: Yes. The Supreme Court preserved the FCC’s Universal Service Fund, which supports Lifeline and rural access. Mississippi’s BEAM is opening BEAD windows to finance more last‑mile builds; watch its BEAD Application page. (reuters.com)

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Tables you can reference offline

Table: Key agency contacts (state and federal)

Confirm hours before visiting in person. (psc.ms.gov)

Table: Water bill quick facts (Jackson & Hattiesburg)

Policies change—verify by phone. (jxnwater.com)

Table: Shutoff protections script

Have your account number ready. (psc.ms.gov)

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Spanish‑language summary (resumen en español)

Este resumen fue traducido con herramientas de IA. Verifique detalles directamente en los sitios oficiales enlazados.

• Internet y teléfono con descuento (Lifeline): Solicite en el USAC National Verifier y luego elija un proveedor con Companies Near Me. La ayuda estándar es $9.25/mes;entierrastribaleshasta$34.25. El programa ACP ya terminó; denuncie fraudes en la página ACP de la FCC. (usac.org)
• Evitar cortes de luz/gas/agua: La Carta de Derechos del MPSC protege contra cortes en calor extremo o heladas, y permite una suspensión de 60 días con carta médica. Solicite ayuda de energía por LIHEAP (MDHS); las citas suelen ser en 30–45 días hábiles. (psc.ms.gov)
• Computadoras y clases: Use computadoras públicas en Jackson/Hinds Library System, llame a la Mississippi Library Commission para apoyo estatal, y visite WIN Job Centers (MDES) para ayuda laboral y acceso a computadoras. Para dispositivos económicos, vea PCs for People y Human‑I‑T. (jhlibrary.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Mississippi Public Service Commission – Bill of Rights
• Mississippi Department of Human Services – LIHEAP
• USAC Lifeline/National Verifier
• Broadband Expansion and Accessibility of Mississippi (BEAM)
• MDES WIN Job Centers
• Mississippi Library Commission
• Project START (MDRS)
• FCC ACP and Lifeline pages

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 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. (psc.ms.gov)

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information and is not legal advice, financial advice, or a government determination of eligibility. Program rules, amounts, and timelines change based on funding and county practices. Always confirm details with the linked official sources before applying. For immediate safety concerns, call 911, the National Domestic Violence Hotline, or your local shelter via MCADV; for interpreter services in job programs, use the MDES Language Assistance line, and for relay calls dial Mississippi Relay 711. (acf.hhs.gov)

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What to do next

• Bookmark: BEAM, MDHS LIHEAP, and USAC National Verifier pages.
• Call today: Your utility plus your Community Action Agency.
• Set a weekly hour: Use WIN Job Centers or your library to apply for classes, jobs, and benefits online.

Stay direct, document every call, and use the links in this guide to push each door. If one door is closed, try the backup linked right beside it.

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🏛️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
• 🤝 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
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery