Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

• Mississippi families in need of assistance with purchasing food can apply through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Formerly known as food stamps, SNAP provides help to families struggling to buy nutritious foods.
  
  Low-income families include those who are working part-time, elderly and disabled people. Families who receive assistance from other programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families may also qualify for SNAP.
  
  

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families

• Low-income needy Mississippi families with minor children can receive financial support from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. The program provides monthly cash assistance for up to 60 months during a recipient's lifetime. Families can receive up to $110 a month per person through TANF.
  
  Families who receive assistance from the program must actively pursue employment or participate in job training. Participants can even receive assistance with finding a job.
  
  

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program

• The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program that helps residents of Mississippi pay the cost of home energy bills. Regular monthly assistance is provided to help reduce the risk of safety problems, such as illness.
  
  Qualified families may also receive assistance making their homes more energy-efficient. Families can receive assistance with insulation and replacing heating and cooling systems.
  
  

Housing Choice Vouchers

• The housing choice vouchers help residents of Mississippi find housing at a reduced rate. Low-income families receive a voucher for use in renting a house or apartment that is privately or government owned. Mississippi's public housing authorities are responsible for processing applications and issuing available vouchers. There is a waiting list in each area; the wait time for a voucher can vary from a few months to several years.