Free Baby Gear and Children’s Items for Single Mothers in Mississippi
Free Baby Gear and Children’s Clothing Resources for Single Mothers in Mississippi
Last updated: September 2025
Mississippi has practical, real-world help for diapers, baby gear, and children’s clothes. This hub pulls the official sources, phone numbers, and timelines into one place so you can act fast, avoid dead ends, and save cash.
Quick Help Box
- If you need referrals right now: Dial 211 or call 866-472-8265 for Mississippi 2‑1‑1. They’ll text or email you local diaper banks, clothing closets, and voucher programs by county. (unitedwaysems.org, uwca.myresourcedirectory.com)
- Apply for WIC from your phone: Use Mississippi WIC’s online application or call 1-800-338-6747 to schedule at your county clinic. WIC can cover infant formula, baby foods, and more. (msdh.ms.gov)
- Free car seat if you qualify: The Mississippi State Department of Health’s Safe Riders Magnolia Program gives free child safety seats with a short safety lesson. Apply online; questions call 601-206-1599. (msdh.ms.gov)
- Jackson area diapers today: Magnolia Medical Foundation Diaper Bank, 256 E. Fortification St., Jackson. Call 601-397-6860. Same‑day enrollment most days. (magmedfound.org)
- Delta region diapers and baby items: Diaper Bank of the Delta, 520C Ritchie Ave., Clarksdale. Hours Mon/Wed/Fri 10–2. Call 662-351-3844. (coahomacountydiape.wixsite.com)
- Gulf Coast clothing vouchers: The Salvation Army Gulf Coast and Jackson Corps issue clothing vouchers during emergencies or hardship. Gulfport store info and Jackson Social Services line 601-982-4881. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
Emergency: The first 24–72 hours
- If a storm, fire, or crisis just hit: Call the Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767 and MEMA info line 1-866-511-6362 for sheltering and emergency assistance. (apps.mid.ms.gov)
- Lost food due to power outage: SNAP households can request replacement benefits; submit the MDHS form within 10 days of the outage. Call 800-948-3050 for help. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Safety from violence: Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence hotline 1-800-898-3234 will connect you to shelters that also provide children’s clothing and baby necessities. (mcadv.org)
Quick emergency contacts table
| Program | What they provide | How to reach | 
|---|---|---|
| Mississippi 2‑1‑1 | Statewide referrals to diaper banks, clothing closets, vouchers | Dial 211 or 866-472-8265 (unitedwaysems.org, uwca.myresourcedirectory.com) | 
| Red Cross | Emergency shelter, clothing/necessities after disasters | 1-800-733-2767 (apps.mid.ms.gov) | 
| MEMA | Disaster information line | 1-866-511-6362 (apps.mid.ms.gov) | 
| MCADV | 24/7 DV hotline and shelter connections | 1-800-898-3234 (mcadv.org) | 
| MDHS SNAP | Replacement benefits after outages | 800-948-3050; 10‑day deadline for form (mdhs.ms.gov) | 
What to do if this doesn’t work: Try your county’s MDHS office (see directory on MDHS Contact page) and the nearest United Way chapter; both can escalate urgent clothing/diaper requests the same day. (mdhs.ms.gov)
How this guide beats the typical “top 10” lists
- Real phone numbers and direct apply links: WIC online apply link and scheduling number, MDHS SNAP timelines, and MSDH free car seat application are included. (msdh.ms.gov, mdhs.ms.gov)
- Latest 2025 income and benefit numbers: Mississippi’s FY2025 SNAP income limits and max benefits and the July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026 WIC income table are here. (mdhs.ms.gov, msdh.ms.gov)
- Mississippi‑specific savings: 2025 tax‑free weekend dates for clothes/school supplies and Mississippi’s diaper tax context. (dor.ms.gov, wlbt.com, nationaldiaperbanknetwork.org)
- Regional lists with addresses: You’ll find Jackson, Gulf Coast, Pine Belt, Delta, Oxford, Tupelo, and Meridian resources with hours and numbers. (stewpot.org, magmedfound.org, msfoodnet.org, coahomacountydiape.wixsite.com, jatupelo.com, safekids.org)
Get baby basics fast: Diapers, wipes, formula, basic gear
Start here—these programs put supplies in your hands quickly. Bring ID and a document for each child (birth certificate/crib card if possible); some sites ask once and put you on a monthly pick‑up schedule.
- Magnolia Medical Foundation Diaper Bank (Jackson)
 Address: 256 E. Fortification St., Jackson, MS 39202
 Phone: 601-397-6860
 How it works: Walk in, fill an application, same‑day diapers; monthly pantry use allowed. (magmedfound.org)
- Diaper Bank of the Delta (Clarksdale; statewide mail-outs by request)
 Address: 520C Ritchie Ave., Clarksdale, MS 38614
 Phone: 662-351-3844
 What they give: Diapers, wipes, formula as available, gently used baby clothes and gear; Safe Kids car‑seat fit station; monthly distributions. Hours Mon/Wed/Fri 10–2. (coahomacountydiape.wixsite.com)
- Pine Belt Diaper Bank through Edwards Street Fellowship Center (Hattiesburg)
 Pick‑up site: 1919 Edwards St., Hattiesburg, MS
 Hours: Mon–Wed 9–2, Thu–Fri 9–4
 Note: One diaper bundle per child per month; ask about vouchers at the Thrift Store (2315 Lincoln Rd.) if you need clothes. Phone: 601-544-6149. (mama.ms.gov, msfoodnet.org)
- Oxford/ North MS Exchange Family Center Diaper Bank (Oxford)
 Address: 1558/106 Skyline Dr., Oxford, MS 38655
 Phone: 662-502-3228
 Hours: Second Tuesday monthly, typically 12–6 p.m.; one pack per child; wipes when available. (nmsfamilycenter.org)
- State directory shortcuts
 Mississippi 2‑1‑1 can list free baby pantries and church closets near you. Dial 211 or 866-472-8265 and ask for “diaper banks” in your ZIP. (uwca.myresourcedirectory.com)
- Cloth diaper option
 National nonprofit provides free cloth diaper kits to eligible families. Apply online at The Cloth Option. (mama.ms.gov)
Eligibility rules: Most diaper banks ask for basic ID and proof the child lives in your home. Some limit pick‑ups to once per month; arrive early because supplies run out.
Documents to bring: Photo ID, child’s birth certificate or crib card, basic address proof (mail/lease), and any proof of benefits if you have them (SNAP/TANF/Medicaid). Requirements vary—call ahead.
Timeline reality: Same‑day pickup is common, but high‑demand weeks can mean a 1–2 week wait for the next distribution. Always text/call first.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 for backup locations; ask your county’s United Way, local Salvation Army Corps, and MDHS county office for a one‑time clothing/diaper voucher. (myunitedway.com, southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
Free car seats and safe sleep gear
MSDH Safe Riders Magnolia Program — free child safety seats
- Who qualifies: Pregnant (third trimester) and caregivers on WIC, SNAP, Medicaid, or with low income.
- What you get: Infant/convertible/booster seat, after a short education session.
- How to apply: Submit the MSDH application online; questions to 601-206-1599. (msdh.ms.gov)
Safe sleep / Cribs
- Cribs for Kids partners: Use the Cribs for Kids map to find agencies in your county that may provide a portable crib after safe‑sleep education. Supplies vary; call ahead. (cribsforkids.org)
- MSDH safe sleep resources: Guidance on reducing SIDS/SUID risk; some partners refer families for crib help. (msdh.ms.gov)
Car‑seat checks (don’t skip this)
- Safe Kids Mississippi (Children’s of Mississippi/UMMC) runs a fitting station at 504 Clinton Center Dr., Clinton, MS 39056. Appointments 601-815-6212. (umc.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local fire department if a certified CPST is on duty, or contact Safe Kids Gulf Coast (228-896-1945) for coastal checkup events. (safekids.org)
Free and low‑cost children’s clothing
These are regularly used by single parents across Mississippi. Call before you go; many sites limit visits (e.g., once every 30–90 days) and may require ID, proof of residency, or a referral.
- Stewpot Clothing Closet (Jackson)
 Address: 947 W. Capitol St., Jackson, MS 39203
 Phone: 601-519-0941
 Hours: Tue–Thu 9–12; walk‑in; thrift‑style free shopping for all ages as donations allow. (stewpot.org)
- The Salvation Army — clothing vouchers
- Jackson Corps: Serving Hinds/Madison/Rankin and nearby counties; call 601-982-4881 for appointment requests; ask for a clothing voucher during hardship or after fire/flood. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Gulf Coast Area Command: Offers clothing vouchers for work/school attire; ask at the Gulfport Family Store. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
 
- Good Samaritan Center Clothing Closet (Jackson)
 Address: 114 Millsaps Ave., Jackson, MS 39202
 Phone: 601-355-6276
 Clothing closet and free distributions; surplus items sold at NUTS thrift fund pantry services. (goodsamaritancenter.org)
- Edwards Street Fellowship Center & Thrift (Hattiesburg/Pine Belt)
 Pantry: 1919 Edwards St.; 601-544-6149
 Thrift with vouchers: 2315 Lincoln Rd.; ask about merchandise vouchers if you have no cash for school clothes. (msfoodnet.org, mama.ms.gov)
- Wesley House Community Center (Meridian)
 Address/phone: 1520 8th Ave., Meridian, MS; 601-485-4736
 Offers clothing closet and seasonal assistance for families in crisis. (msreentryguide.com)
- Junior Auxiliary chapters (local “clothes closets” and school‑year drives)
- Tupelo: JA Clothes Closet (school referrals; basics, shoes, underwear). (jatupelo.com)
- Pascagoula–Moss Point: Free Back‑to‑School Closet (six items per child, plus essentials when available). Watch local news/JA feeds each July. (wlox.com)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school’s counselor for a McKinney‑Vento liaison referral for uniforms/shoes (especially if you’ve lost housing or doubled‑up); MDE liaisons can approve emergency school clothing help. State coordinator at 601-359-3499 can connect you. (mdek12.org)
Government programs that free up money for baby gear and clothes
Even if these don’t hand you a stroller or onesies, they put groceries or cash in your budget so you can use your dollars on clothing and essentials.
WIC — Women, Infants & Children
- What it covers: Infant formula, baby foods, cereal, milk, eggs, peanut butter/beans, fruits/vegetables (cash‑value benefit), plus breastfeeding support.
- Apply: Online application or call 1-800-338-6747 for an appointment at your county clinic. For general questions, call WIC Program at 601-991-6000 or 800-545-6747. (msdh.ms.gov)
- Income limits: Effective July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026, WIC uses 185% FPL. Example monthly gross limits: household of 2 3,261∗∗,of3∗∗3,261**, of 3 **4,109, of 4 $4,957. See the full table on MSDH. (msdh.ms.gov)
- What to bring (first appointment): Proof of income, proof of MS residency, and photo ID. Newborns have a 60‑day window to be seen at clinic. (msdh.ms.gov)
- Tribal citizens: Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians runs its own WIC at the Choctaw Health Center; call 601-389-4510 for appointments. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your clinic is backed up, ask about the next available county site or contact the MSDH WIC Program numbers above for an alternative clinic that can see you sooner. (msdh.ms.gov)
SNAP — EBT for groceries (frees cash for clothing)
- Max benefit amounts (Oct 2024–Sep 2025) for most Mississippi households: 1 person 292∗∗,2∗∗292**, 2 **536, 3 768∗∗,4∗∗768**, 4 **975, each additional $220. See MDHS for full chart and net/gross income tests. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Processing time: Decision within 30 days; expedited households get benefits within 7 days. Submit all requested documents quickly. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- How to apply: Online through MDHS; upload documents here or call 800-948-3050 for help. EBT cards typically mail in 7–10 days after ordered. (mdhs.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 800-948-3050 and ask for case review. If mail is unreliable, request in‑office pickup for notices and confirm your address is correct. (mdhs.ms.gov)
TANF — cash assistance for very low‑income families
- Who qualifies: Families with a child under 18, low income and limited assets.
- Income limits (gross monthly): 2 in assistance unit 851∗∗,3∗∗851**, 3 **1,074, 4 $1,298 (see MDHS for full table). (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Child‑only TANF (non‑parent caregiver cases) maximums: 1 child 200∗∗,2∗∗200**, 2 **236, 3 260∗∗,4∗∗260**, 4 **284, 5 $308 per month. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Apply: Online at access.ms.gov or through your MDHS county office; interviews scheduled by MDHS. For questions call 800-948-3050. (mdhs.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about the TANF Work Program exemptions (e.g., caring for a child under 12 months—lifetime limit 12 months) and whether a child‑only case is appropriate for a relative caregiver. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Quick facts table — WIC, SNAP, TANF
| Program | Key benefit | 2025 income example | Timeline | Apply | 
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WIC | Food package for women/infants/children <5 | HH of 3 ≤ $4,109/mo | Appointment at clinic; bring docs | Online or 1-800-338-6747 (msdh.ms.gov) | 
| SNAP | Monthly EBT for food | HH of 4 max $975/mo benefit | 7–30 days depending on case | Online; help 800-948-3050 (mdhs.ms.gov) | 
| TANF | Monthly cash | 3 in AU gross ≤ $1,074/mo | Interview; varies by county | Online; help 800-948-3050 (mdhs.ms.gov) | 
Save money on new clothes and school uniforms
- Mississippi sales tax holiday: Clothing, footwear, and school supplies priced ≤ $100 per item are tax‑free each year from 12:01 a.m. the last Friday in July through Saturday midnight; in 2025 the state’s official guidance was published in May, and local media reported dates July 11–13, 2025. Check DOR’s official guide for the current year. (dor.ms.gov, wlbt.com)
- Diaper tax: Mississippi still taxes diapers at the full 7% state rate (local add‑ons may apply). Plan diaper purchases around clothing tax‑free savings and diaper bank pickups. (nationaldiaperbanknetwork.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you missed the tax‑free weekend, ask your school counselor about uniform closets and McKinney‑Vento resources in your district. (mdek12.org)
Resources by region
Jackson / Capital area
- Stewpot Clothing Closet: Free clothing Tue–Thu 9–12. 601-519-0941. 947 W. Capitol St. (stewpot.org)
- Good Samaritan Center: Clothing closet; call 601-355-6276; 114 Millsaps Ave. (goodsamaritancenter.org)
- Salvation Army Jackson Social Services: Call 601-982-4881 Mon 8:30 a.m. for clothing voucher appointment requests. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Magnolia Medical Foundation Diaper Bank: 601-397-6860; 256 E. Fortification St. (magmedfound.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial 211 and ask for “free clothing vouchers” and “diaper pantries” in Hinds/Madison/Rankin. (myunitedway.com)
Gulf Coast (Harrison, Hancock, Jackson, Pearl River, Stone, George)
- Salvation Army Gulf Coast: Clothing vouchers available; check with Gulfport Family Store. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Catholic Charities of South Mississippi: Infant care items like car seats, safe sleep spaces, diapers, and clothing when available. (mama.ms.gov)
- Safe Kids Gulf Coast: Car‑seat checks and safety events; 228-896-1945. (safekids.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 or the United Way of South MS 2‑1‑1 line for the next clothing/diaper distribution near you. (unitedwaysm.org)
Pine Belt (Hattiesburg and surrounding counties)
- Edwards Street Fellowship Center: Pantry hours and Pine Belt Diaper Bank pick‑ups; 601-544-6149. Thrift store offers merchandise vouchers. (msfoodnet.org, mama.ms.gov)
- Junior Auxiliary of Hattiesburg: Supports Pine Belt Diaper Bank; watch their feeds for drives. (hattiesburgjuniorauxiliary.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your child’s school about McKinney‑Vento liaison support for uniforms and shoes. (ossdms.org)
Delta
- Diaper Bank of the Delta: 662-351-3844; diapers, wipes, formula, children’s clothes, Safe Kids fit station; Mon/Wed/Fri 10–2. (coahomacountydiape.wixsite.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use 211 and ask for churches with baby closets in Coahoma, Tallahatchie, or Bolivar counties. (unitedwaysems.org)
Northeast (Tupelo/Lee County)
- Junior Auxiliary of Tupelo — Clothes Closet: School‑referral clothing program for students; ask your school counselor. (jatupelo.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your district’s McKinney‑Vento liaison; they can issue uniform referrals. (mdek12.org)
Oxford/Lafayette County
- North MS Exchange Family Center Diaper Bank: Second Tuesday 12–6 p.m.; 662-502-3228. (nmsfamilycenter.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial 211 and ask about church baby closets in Lafayette County. (unitedwaysems.org)
Meridian/Lauderdale County
- Wesley House Community Center: Clothing closet and family assistance; 601-485-4736. (msreentryguide.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school or Head Start for uniform/clothing referrals through McKinney‑Vento. (mdek12.org)
Application checklist
Bring these to speed up approvals and avoid return trips.
- For WIC: Photo ID, proof of Mississippi address (recent mail/lease), proof of income (pay stub, employer letter, tax return) or proof of Medicaid/SNAP/TANF, and your child’s shot record if handy. Newborns can be seen within 60 days. (msdh.ms.gov)
- For SNAP/TANF: Photo ID, Social Security numbers (if available), proof of address, proof of income/expenses (rent, utilities, child care), and any child support orders. Upload via MDHS Document Upload; help line 800-948-3050. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- For car seats/cribs: Photo ID, proof of participation in WIC/SNAP/Medicaid (if applicable), and be ready to complete a short safety session. (msdh.ms.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing deadlines: SNAP replacement claims must be filed within 10 days of a power outage; sales tax holiday dates are a short window in July—mark your calendar. (mdhs.ms.gov, dor.ms.gov)
- Leaving blanks on forms: Incomplete WIC or SNAP applications can push you to the back of the line. Use the online upload tool to send missing papers same day. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Not asking for vouchers: Salvation Army and some thrift partners offer clothing vouchers during hardship—ask directly. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Skipping the car‑seat lesson: MSDH requires education to receive a free seat; don’t miss your appointment. (msdh.ms.gov)
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: What to expect: WIC, SNAP, TANF, and MSDH car‑seat programs serve all eligible families regardless of orientation or gender identity. For safety planning or shelter with children, MCADV’s hotline 1-800-898-3234 will route you to inclusive programs. (mcadv.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: What to expect: Ask WIC for interpretation/accommodation services at appointment; MSDH provides free language and disability assistance by calling 1-800-545-6747. For expedited SNAP, report medical bills and special diet costs for accurate deductions. (msdh.ms.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: What to expect: If you’re a veteran or spouse at risk of homelessness, SSVF providers on the Gulf Coast and Jackson area may cover emergency needs while stabilizing housing—ask about limited assistance for family essentials during intake. (hfal.org, southmsveteransresources.com)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: What to expect: Children born in the U.S. can qualify for WIC and SNAP even if a parent is not a U.S. citizen. Ask for language assistance at MSDH clinics: 1-800-545-6747. (msdh.ms.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: What to expect: Members of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians can apply through Choctaw WIC at 601-389-4510 and access Family & Community Services for crisis help. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, choctaw.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: What to expect: Use 211 to locate mobile diaper distributions, church closets, and county extension events; ask diaper banks if they mail supplies (some in MS do, as stock allows). (unitedwaysems.org)
- Single fathers: What to expect: All the programs above serve fathers raising children. State rules are based on household income and the child’s age, not the parent’s gender. See WIC “Who is Eligible.” (msdh.ms.gov)
- Language access: What to expect: MSDH offers free interpretation/translation upon request. Call 1-800-545-6747 before your visit. (msdh.ms.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | One best first step | Backup | 
|---|---|---|
| Diapers today | Call 211 for the closest diaper bank; in Jackson call 601-397-6860 | Ask your pediatric clinic/social worker for a same‑day referral | 
| Car seat | Apply to MSDH Safe Riders Magnolia; questions 601-206-1599 | Schedule a Safe Kids fitting at 601-815-6212 | 
| Free kids’ clothes | Stewpot Jackson (601-519-0941) or Salvation Army voucher (601-982-4881) | Good Samaritan (601-355-6276) or local JA clothes closet | 
| School uniforms | Ask school counselor for McKinney‑Vento help | Plan around the July tax‑free weekend | 
| Groceries to free cash | Apply for SNAP; max for 4 is $975/mo | Use WIC for infants/toddlers; household of 3 ≤ $4,109/mo | 
(myunitedway.com, magmedfound.org, msdh.ms.gov, umc.edu, stewpot.org, southernusa.salvationarmy.org, goodsamaritancenter.org, mdek12.org, dor.ms.gov, mdhs.ms.gov)
Tables you can print
Table — Statewide baby gear and clothing help
| Resource | What you get | Who qualifies | How to apply/contact | 
|---|---|---|---|
| Magnolia Medical Foundation Diaper Bank (Jackson) | Diapers; monthly pantry use | Families with children in diapers; bring ID | Walk in; 601-397-6860; 256 E. Fortification St. (magmedfound.org) | 
| Diaper Bank of the Delta | Diapers/wipes; some formula; kids’ clothes | Open to families with need; 1x/mo typical | 662-351-3844; Mon/Wed/Fri 10–2; Clarksdale (coahomacountydiape.wixsite.com) | 
| MSDH Safe Riders Magnolia | Free car seats + education | Pregnant (3rd tri) or on WIC/SNAP/Medicaid/low income | Apply online; questions 601-206-1599 (msdh.ms.gov) | 
| Stewpot Clothing Closet (Jackson) | Free clothing for all ages | Walk‑in during hours | 601-519-0941; Tue–Thu 9–12 (stewpot.org) | 
| Salvation Army clothing vouchers (Jackson & Gulf Coast) | Voucher to shop free at Family Store | Hardship, disaster, or emergency | 601-982-4881 (Jackson) / Gulfport Family Store info (southernusa.salvationarmy.org) | 
Table — Key income/benefit numbers (2025)
| Program | Income/benefit clip | 
|---|---|
| WIC income limits (monthly) — 2 3,261∗∗,3∗∗3,261**, 3 **4,109, 4 $4,957 (effective July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026) (msdh.ms.gov) | |
| SNAP max benefit — 4 people 975/mo∗∗;eachadditional∗∗975/mo**; each additional **220 (FY2025) (mdhs.ms.gov) | |
| TANF gross monthly limit — 3 in AU 1,074∗∗;child‑onlymaxfor3∗∗1,074**; child‑only max for 3 **260 (mdhs.ms.gov) | 
Table — School‑year savings
| Tool | How it helps | Dates/notes | 
|---|---|---|
| MS sales tax holiday | No state tax on clothing/footwear/school supplies ≤ $100/item | Last Fri–Sat in July annually; in 2025 many outlets reported July 11–13; verify with DOR’s current guide. (dor.ms.gov, wlbt.com) | 
| Diaper tax | Diapers taxed at 7% in MS (no exemption) | Plan diaper bank pickups to stretch cash. (nationaldiaperbanknetwork.org) | 
Table — WIC: what to bring and where to call
| Step | Details | 
|---|---|
| Schedule | Online application or call 1-800-338-6747; general info 601-991-6000 / 800-545-6747 (msdh.ms.gov) | 
| Bring | Photo ID, proof of address, proof of income or proof you receive Medicaid/SNAP/TANF; newborns must be seen within 60 days. (msdh.ms.gov) | 
| Tribal WIC | Choctaw WIC 601-389-4510 (Choctaw Health Center) (fns-prod.azureedge.us) | 
Real‑world examples (what this looks like)
- A Hinds County mom used WIC for formula and baby foods while the MSDH Safe Riders program issued her a free convertible car seat the same week after a virtual safety session. She then asked the Salvation Army Jackson for a clothing voucher to get school uniforms for her older child. (msdh.ms.gov, southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- In the Delta, a grandmother caring for a newborn and two toddlers picks up diapers from the Diaper Bank of the Delta monthly and calls 211 when travel is hard; the bank sometimes mails supplies to outlying counties. (coahomacountydiape.wixsite.com, localmemphis.com)
What to do if you keep hitting walls
- Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for a “warm transfer” to a local navigator who can stay on the line as you contact a diaper bank or clothing closet. (uwca.myresourcedirectory.com)
- Use school channels: Ask the McKinney‑Vento liaison for uniforms and shoes if you’re doubled‑up or recently displaced. They can act fast. (mdek12.org)
- Escalate with MDHS: For stuck SNAP/TANF cases, call 800-948-3050 and request a supervisor review; verify your mailing address and upload any missing docs online. (mdhs.ms.gov)
FAQs — Mississippi‑specific (10 quick answers)
- Where can I get a free car seat this month: Apply through the MSDH Safe Riders Magnolia program; eligibility includes WIC, SNAP, Medicaid, or low income. Call 601-206-1599. (msdh.ms.gov)
- Does anyone give out free Pack ’n Plays: Some Cribs for Kids partners and coastal Catholic Charities sites provide portable cribs when available after safe‑sleep education. Use the Cribs for Kids map or ask WIC/2‑1‑1. (cribsforkids.org)
- Which day will my SNAP hit: Depends on the last two digits of your case number; benefits load on the 4th–21st each month. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- How fast is SNAP: Within 30 days of application; expedited cases within 7 days. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Do I qualify for WIC if I’m working: Yes, if you’re under the income limit—for example, household of 3 ≤ $4,109/mo (2025–26). Apply online. (msdh.ms.gov)
- Can I get school uniforms for free: Ask your school’s McKinney‑Vento liaison or Salvation Army for a clothing voucher; Jackson Corps: 601-982-4881. (mdek12.org, southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- Is there help on the Gulf Coast: Yes—Salvation Army Gulf Coast clothing vouchers, Catholic Charities South Mississippi infant supplies, and Safe Kids Gulf Coast car‑seat events. (southernusa.salvationarmy.org, mama.ms.gov, safekids.org)
- Any tax breaks for kids’ clothes: Yes. Mississippi’s tax‑free weekend on clothing/footwear/school supplies ≤ $100/item runs in July; check DOR’s guide for current dates. (dor.ms.gov)
- My power outage spoiled food—can I replace SNAP: Yes, submit the replacement form within 10 days of the outage; call 800-948-3050 if you need help. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- I’m a tribal citizen—who should I call: Choctaw WIC 601-389-4510 and the MBCI Department of Family & Community Services for crisis support. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, choctaw.org)
What to expect when applying (timelines and tips)
- WIC: Many clinics can issue benefits at your first appointment if eligibility is verified. Bring all documents to avoid a second trip. (msdh.ms.gov)
- SNAP: Upload documents as soon as MDHS requests them; keep your phone on for calls/texts. If you qualify for expedited service, ask for it. 7–30 days is the typical window. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- TANF: Interview scheduled after applying; if you’re a non‑parent caregiver, the child‑only case may be fastest to get a small monthly benefit ($200 for one child; scales up per child). (mdhs.ms.gov)
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.
Disclaimer
Information accuracy: We link to official sources and provide current numbers where available; benefit amounts and dates can change. Always verify details with the relevant agency before you apply.
Security: Do not share full SSNs or EBT card numbers over email or text. Use official state portals (MDHS) and clinic phone lines listed above. If you suspect fraud, report it to MDHS or law enforcement immediately. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Sources cited in this guide
- Mississippi 2‑1‑1 contact pages and FAQs (coverage and toll‑free number). (unitedwaysems.org, unitedwaysm.org, myunitedway.com, uwca.myresourcedirectory.com)
- Mississippi WIC program pages, contacts, online apply, income table (2025–26). (msdh.ms.gov)
- MSDH Safe Riders Magnolia car‑seat program (eligibility, apply link, phone). (msdh.ms.gov)
- Safe Kids Mississippi/UMMC fitting station contacts. (umc.edu)
- SNAP income/benefit chart and processing timelines; EBT issuance and benefit calendar. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- TANF income limits and child‑only benefit amounts; program basics. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Diaper banks and clothing programs (Magnolia Medical Foundation; Diaper Bank of the Delta; Edwards Street/Pine Belt; Stewpot; Salvation Army). (magmedfound.org, coahomacountydiape.wixsite.com, msfoodnet.org, mama.ms.gov, stewpot.org, southernusa.salvationarmy.org)
- DOR sales tax holiday and diaper tax background (NDBN). (dor.ms.gov, nationaldiaperbanknetwork.org)
- McKinney‑Vento liaison info at MDE; district examples. (mdek12.org)
What to do next: Pick one “first step” above and make the call today. Then put the rest on your calendar—WIC appointment, SNAP upload, next diaper pick‑up, and July’s tax‑free weekend. You’ve got this, one task at a time.
🏛️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 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
