Division of Economic Assistance Food Stamps Program
The Mississippi Department of Human Services handles the Division of Economic Assistance, which oversees the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) in Mississippi
- Agency
- Mississippi Department of Human Services
- Type
- State Resource
- Phone
- 1-800-948-3050, 1-601-359-4419
- Application Period
- Income Limit
The Mississippi Department of Human Services handles the Division of Economic Assistance, which oversees the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) in Mississippi. The USDA changed the name of the federal food stamp program to SNAP in 2008.
The Mississippi Department of Human Services handles the Division of Economic Assistance, which oversees the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) in Mississippi. The USDA changed the name of the federal food stamp program to SNAP in 2008.
Images & PDFs
Effects of Food Assistance and Nutrition Programs on Nutrition and Health: Volume 4, Executive Summary of the Literature Review
A literature review summarizing the impact of food assistance and nutrition programs on health and nutrition outcomes.
View Full ImageMississippi Development Authority Economic Resources
A document listing economic development programs under the Mississippi Development Authority. It provides a structured overview of available programs.
View Full ImageSNAP-Ed Evaluation Framework
A comprehensive guide to evaluating SNAP-Ed programs, focusing on nutrition, physical activity, and obesity prevention indicators.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Economic Benefits of SNAP: The Role of Food Assistance in Supporting Local Economies
6/10/2021 | Coverage: national
This publication outlines how the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) stimulates local economies and supports low-income households during economic downturns.
Source: USDA Economic Research Service
Coverage Area: national
Food Insecurity and the Impact of Food Stamp Programs in Mississippi
8/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report examines the effectiveness of the Food Stamps Program in alleviating food insecurity among Mississippi residents, especially in light of rising costs of living.
Source: Mississippi Department of Human Services
Coverage Area: state
Reducing Stigma Around Food Assistance: Community Perspectives
1/20/2023 | Coverage: national
This study investigates the perceptions of food assistance programs and how education and community initiatives are reshaping public attitudes.
Source: American Public Health Association
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
2/17/2009Increased SNAP benefits temporarily as part of economic recovery efforts during the recession.
Farm Security and Rural Investment Act
5/13/2002Reauthorized and improved the Food Stamp Program, increasing funding and access.
Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act
8/22/1996Reformed welfare programs, including Food Stamps, focusing on work requirements.
Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act
11/30/1981Made significant changes to the Food Stamp Program, including stricter eligibility requirements.
Food Stamp Act of 1964
8/1/1964Established the modern Food Stamp Program to provide food assistance to low-income families, which was later adopted in Mississippi.
FAQ
To apply for food stamps in Mississippi, you can either fill out an application online through the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) website or visit your local MDHS office to obtain a paper application. Once your application is submitted, you may be required to participate in an interview to verify your information.
Food stamps can be used to purchase a variety of food items including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, poultry, fish, and bread. They can also be used to buy seeds or plants that produce food. However, food stamps cannot be used to purchase non-food items such as alcohol, tobacco, pet food, or household supplies.
Reference: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/what-you-can-buy-with-food-stamps
The Division of Economic Assistance Food Stamps Program in Mississippi provides financial assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families to help them purchase food. The program is designed to alleviate hunger and improve nutrition by offering assistance through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards that can be used like cash at authorized food retailers.
Reference: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov
Eligibility for food stamps in Mississippi is determined based on several factors including income, household size, and citizenship status. Generally, individuals or families with a gross monthly income that is at or below 130% of the federal poverty level may qualify. Special considerations are given to households with elderly or disabled members.
To determine if you may be eligible for the Food Stamps Program, consider the following checklist:
- Check your household size.
- Calculate your gross monthly income.
- Confirm U.S. citizenship or legal residency.
- Verify any special conditions (like disability or age)
If you meet these criteria, you may be eligible for the program.
Here are some important action items to take if you believe you are eligible:
- Gather necessary documentation (ID, proof of income, etc.).
- Complete the online application or visit a local office.
- Follow up on your application status within a few weeks.
- Attend any scheduled interviews or provide additional information if requested.
Completing these steps will help ensure your application is processed smoothly.
Reference: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/food-stamps
Eligibility requirements are subject to change. Please check with the Mississippi Department of Human Services for the most current information.
