If you are aware of resources or organizations that should be added to the directory please see page 195 for the Agency Update/Addition form.

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1 Mississippi Reentry Guide Dear Reader, On behalf of the Mississippi Reentry Council, The Foundation for the Mid South is pleased to produce the Mississippi Reentry Guide. It is the hope of the Reentry Council that this directory will serve as an effective resource for those reentering communities throughout the state of Mississippi. The Reentry Council understands the many obstacles that returning ex-offenders face as they reintegrate into their families and neighborhoods. While these obstacles make reintegration difficult, there are many services and resources throughout the state of Mississippi that work to make this transition successful for ex-offenders, their families, and the communities to which they are returning. This directory is designed to connect people to services. It includes resources from national, state, and local agencies with the goal of being as comprehensive as possible. However, some information may prove to be missing. The information for each organization in the printed version and on the website has been provided by the service provider or from the organization s website. While every effort is made to provide current and accurate information for the agency descriptions and hours of operation, it is recommended to call the agency to verify the information before visiting. The editors cannot and do not vouch for the accuracy or quality of service available. If you are aware of resources or organizations that should be added to the directory please see page 195 for the Agency Update/Addition form. Please direct any questions about the directory to: MSreentryguide@fndmidsouth.org The mission of the Foundation for the Mid South is to invest in people and strategies that build philanthropy and promote racial, social, and economic equity in Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi. The Foundation for the Mid South was established to bring together the public and private sectors and focus their resources on increasing social and economic opportunity. The Foundation focuses on strengthening four priorities that, we believe, are the bedrock for prosperous communities and a strong region including Education, Wealth Building, Community Development, and Health and Wellness. This directory is part of the Foundation s community development portfolio. For more information about Foundation for the Mid South, please visit: 1

2 MISSISSIPPI RE-ENTRY GUIDE Table of Contents Introduction 3 Critical Resources: 4 National Resources 5 Statewide Resources 11 County Resources 21 Adams 21 Alcorn 22 Amite 24 Attala 26 Benton 27 Bolivar 28 Calhoun 31 Carroll 32 Chickasaw 34 Choctaw 35 Claiborne 37 Clarke 38 Clay 39 Coahoma 41 Copiah 43 Covington 45 De Soto 46 Forrest 49 Franklin 54 George 55 Greene 57 Grenada 59 Hancock 60 Harrison 62 Hinds 69 Holmes 87 Humphreys 89 Issaquena 90 Itawamba 93 Jackson County 95 Jasper 98 Jefferson 100 Jefferson Davis 101 Jones 103 Kemper 105 Lafayette 106 Lamar 108 Lauderdale 110 Lawrence 112 Leake 114 Lee 115 Leflore 117 Lincoln 119 Lowndes 121 Madison 123 Marion 126 Marshall 128 Monroe 130 Montgomery 132 Neshoba 133 Newton 135 Noxubee 136 Oktibbeha 137 Panola 139 Pearl River 141 Perry 143 Pike 144 Pontotoc 146 Prentiss 148 Quitman 149 Rankin 151 Scott 155 Sharkey 156 Simpson 159 Smith 161 Stone 163 Sunflower 164 Tallahatchie 167 Tate 168 Tippah 169 Tishomingo 171 Tunica 172 Union 174 Walthall 175 Warren 177 Washington 182 Wayne 185 Webster 187 Wilkinson 188 Winston 189 Yalobusha 190 Yazoo 192 Agency Update / Addition Form 195 2

3 Introduction Purpose of the directory This directory is intended to provide essential information and resources about services to ex-offenders and those that support them. Our goal is to ensure that those leaving incarceration will have an easier and more successful transition back into their community. We hope this directory will reach the many individuals throughout Mississippi that need this information. The directory can also be viewed in a searchable format at Who is the directory for? Ex-offenders Family members and friends of ex-offenders State and local agencies serving ex-offenders Human Service providers such as social workers and counselors Nonprofit organizations Law enforcement Parole Officers State and National Policy makers Researchers Anyone interested in advocating for, serving or learning about re-entry in Mississippi How is the directory organized? The directory includes national, state and local (county) resources. The state of Mississippi is divided into 82 counties. Under each of these location headings you can find resources by topics such as housing or education services. As a matter of policy, FMS does not endorse any product, service or business. This resource guide is provided solely to assist you in exercising your own best judgment. Information in this guide is believed to be reliable, but not guaranteed as to accuracy. The FMS resource guide is subject to change at any time. 3

4 MISSISSIPPI RE-ENTRY GUIDE Critical Resources: Crisis Hotline (601) Department of Public Safety (601) Mississippi Department of Corrections (601) Mississippi Department of Human Services Mississippi Department of Employment Security (601) Mississippi Vital Records (601) State of Mississippi Parole Board (601) Work Release Program Community Work Centers (601) or (601) : Community Information and Referral Services Dial

5 National Resources Administrative Benefits.gov Provides citizens with easy, online access to government benefit and assistance programs. Visit the site to take a eligibility prescreening questionnaire or Benefit Finder. Answers to the questionnaire are used to evaluate a visitor s situation and compare it with the eligibility criteria for more than 1,000 Federally-funded benefit and assistance programs. Each program description provides citizens with the next steps to apply for any benefit program of interest. For additional government information, you may call USA. gov s National Contact Center at FED-INFO ( ), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, to speak to an information specialist, or visit them online at Social Security Administration TTY Get or replace a Social Security card Apply for benefits including: Retirement, spouses and/or Medicare benefits; Survivors benefits; Disability benefits for children or adults; Child s benefits; Parents benefits; and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Get extra help with Medicare prescription drug costs Appeal a disability decision Benefits after incarceration: Hours: All office locations listed below are open M, Tu, Th, F: 9am-3pm; W: 9am-12pm U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Hud.gov View listings of Mississippi HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agencies: hcc/hcs.cfm?weblistaction=search&searchstate=ms Federal assistance is the best way to deal with this issue upon release as inmates may qualify for Section 8 vouchers from HUD ( mississippi). Toll free line hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST Monday - Friday, except for Federal Holidays Jackson Field Office: Dr. A.H. McCoy Federal Building 100 W. Capitol St, Suite 910 Jackson, MS Fax TTY MS_Webmanager@hud.gov Jerrie G. Magruder, Field Office Director Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Monday through Friday U.S. Department of Labor Work Opportunity Tax Credit 1502 W. Capitol St. P.O. Box 1699 Jackson, MS Fax jsprince@detma.org opptax/(not sure if DOL info is correct) sure if DOL info is correct) Contact: WOTC Coordinator Mississippi Department of Employment Security P.O. Box 1699 Jackson, MS fax wotc@mdes.ms.gov 5

6 MISSISSIPPI RE-ENTRY GUIDE The Work Opportunity Tax Credit is a federal program designed to encourage employers to hire individuals who might otherwise not find employment. Employers who agree to hire individuals from a target group may qualify for a tax credit. Visit website to view more information on the guidelines of this tax credit. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, IRIS VA Benefits: Crisis Hotline: iris.custhelp.com The Inquiry Routing & Information System (IRIS), maintained by the US VA, contains a list of toll-free numbers for contacting the Department related to various veterans issues. Visit the website link for a complete listing of toll-free phone numbers. IRIS is also a secure messaging system that can be used to message inquiries to the VA. Education Federal Student Financial Aid P.O. Box 84 Washington, DC FED-AID ( ) fafsa.ed.gov Visit this website or call the toll free number to get information on how to finance you college education. Federal Student Financial Aid consists of Stafford Loans, PLUS Loans, Consolidation Loans, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOGs), Federal Work- Study, Federal Perkins Loans, and Pell Grants. Visit the FAFSA website to apply for aid. Financial Aid Eligibility for People with Felonies It is a misconception that no ex-offenders are eligible for financial aid. The first step to getting federal financial aid is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA helps determine if you can get financial aid. It also determines how much aid you are eligible to receive. To be eligible to receive federal student aid, you must meet these requirements: Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen Have a valid Social Security Number (unless you re from the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, or the Republic of Palau) Comply with Selective Service registration, if required Have a high school diploma or a General Education Development (GED) Certificate or pass an approved abilityto-benefit (ATB) test Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a regular student working toward a degree or certificate in an eligible program at a school that participates in the federal student aid programs Other requirements: You must not owe a refund on a federal grant or be in default on a federal student loan You must have financial need (except for unsubsidized Stafford Loans) You must not have certain drug convictions Drug convictions: A new law suspends aid eligibility for students convicted under federal or state law of sale or possession of drugs. If you have been convicted of drug possession, you will be ineligible for one year from the date of your conviction after the first offense, two years after the second offense, and indefinitely after the third offense. If you have been convicted for selling drugs, you will be ineligible for two years from the date of your conviction after the first offense, and indefinitely after the second offense. If you lose eligibility, you can regain eligibility early by successfully completing an approved drug rehabilitation program. The FAFSA Drug Conviction Worksheet will help you determine your eligibility. The worksheet will direct you to complete the FAFSA online. If you have any non-drug related conviction, you are still eligible for federal student aid. Employment Job Accommodations Network (JAN) Disability Employment and Training Services askjan.org JAN is a free consulting service to increase the employability of people with disabilities by: 1) providing individualized worksite accommodations solutions, 2) providing technical assistance regarding the ADA and other disability related legislation, and 3) educating callers about self-employment options. 6

7 Equal Employment Opportunity Commission The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is responsible for enforcing federal laws that make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or an employee because of the person s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. It is also illegal to discriminate against a person because the person complained about discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or participated in an employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit. You can call to submit basic information about a possible discrimination charge, and we will forward the information to the EEOC field office in your area. Once the field office receives your information, they will contact you to talk to you about your situation. National H.I.R.E. Network 225 Varick Street New York, NY Fax hirenetworkinfo@lac.org National H.I.R.E network provides Individuals with criminal records with resources, information and assistance to re-enter employment. The National H.I.R.E. Network also provides training and technical assistance to agencies working to improve the employment prospects for people with criminal records. The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) US2-JOBS ( ) Serves low-income individuals who are at least 55 years old and have limited employment prospects. This initiative provides older Americans with part-time community service jobs. Assignments can be for up to 1,300 hours per year and pay (at least) the minimum wage. Job training, classroom training, counseling, and placement in unsubsidized jobs also are offered. Participants can use their experience as a bridge to other employment. Food Assistance Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) ea.customerservice@mdhs.ms.gov Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the food stamp program, provides monthly benefits that help low income households buy the food they need for good health. SNAP is a federal program administered on the local level by the Mississippi Department of Human Services. To get SNAP benefits, households must meet certain tests, including resource and income tests: Resources Income Deductions Employment Requirements Special Rules for Elderly or Disabled Immigrant Eligibility Follow link for a prescreening eligibility tool: snap-step1.usda.gov/fns/ Hotlines Child Find of America 800-I-AM-LOST ( ) 800-A-WAY-OUT ( ) Parent Help line Parents, family or friends reporting lost or abducted children, including parental abductions, prevention, and child custody issues Job Line US2-JOBS ( ) If you are looking for employment, Jobline is a free public service provided by state agencies with assistance from the National Federation of the Blind and the United 7

8 MISSISSIPPI RE-ENTRY GUIDE States Department of Labor. This service is available on the telephone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. New jobs are listed on the system each day, and jobs that are filled are removed. All that is required is a touch-tone telephone to establish your personalized job-search profile. Love is Respect Phone: TTY: If you or a friend is in an abusive relationship, you may feel like you are all alone know that you are not. We have resources to help you stay safe, build a support system, access legal protection and more. The hotline is available 24/7. You can also text (text loveis to 22522) or chat (just click the Live Chat button on their website). Medicare MEDICARE ( ) MyMedicare.gov For specific sign-up or billing questions and questions about your claims, medical records, or expenses. National Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Information Center The National Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Information Center maintains a comprehensive database of the leading drug and alcohol treatment centers for every level of treatment option. National Alliance on Mental Illness NAMI ( ) Information on mental illness, legal resources, referrals and support for Individuals, families, and professionals Hours 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., ET, weekdays National CDC STD/HIV Hotline 1800-cdcinfo ( ) Nationwide test site referrals, counseling, literature (upon request), clinical trials, information referrals, and a wide scope of other HIV/AIDS/STD/TB-related resource information is available. National Center for Missing and Exploited Children 800-THE-LOST ( ) TDD Report missing children or the sighting of a missing child. Used by families and professionals (social services, law enforcement) National Domestic Violence Hotline SAFE ( ) Video Phone Only for Deaf Callers: The helpline is open 24 hours a day and is completely confidential. National Human Trafficking Hotline Victims of human trafficking and those reporting potential trafficking situations National Parent Helpline 855.4APARENT ( ) Parents and caregivers needing emotional support and links to resources Hours 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., PST, weekdays National Runaway Safeline 800-RUNAWAY ( ) info@1800runaway.org Our goal is to help teens help yourself while developing a detailed plan of action that is appropriate for you. We use active listening skills to help you process your feelings and handle the facts about your situation. If a teen has already left home the safeline can, if the teen requests, relay messages to parents or set up conference calls. 8

9 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline TALK ( ) TTY ( ) Whether you are thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend, or need emotional support, there are a million of reasons to call the Lifeline. No matter what problems you are dealing with, we want to help you find a reason to keep living. By calling you ll be connected to a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area, anytime 24/7. Your call is confidential and free. Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) HOPE ( ) The Hotline Provides: Short-term crisis intervention and support Answers to questions about recovering from sexual assault Basic information about medical issues Resources that can assist with the reporting process Referrals to resources in your area Information for family and friends of victims and survivors Legal Probono.net 151 West 30th Street 6th Floor New York, NY Fax Works to increase access to justice for the millions of poor people who face legal problems every year without help from a lawyer. Probono.net is a national, online resource for legal aid and pro bono attorneys, law professors and students, and related social services advocates. LawHelp.org ( LawHelp is an online resource that helps low and moderateincome people find free legal aid programs in their communities, answers to questions about their legal rights, court information, links to social service agencies, and more. Southern Disability Law Center 1307 Payne Ave Austin, Tx FAX Toll Free SDLC s work is determined by the projects that are currently supported by our funding sources. The scope of our work depends upon the availability of funding. Presently, SDLC may be able to help you if: You are Medicaid-eligible in Texas or Mississippi Your household income is very limited, and You are an individual with a disability who was denied access to Medicaid-funded medical equipment or other medically necessary services. Mental Health National Institute on Mental Health (NIMH) 6001 Executive Boulevard Rockville, MD NIMHinfo@mail.nih.gov Offers information on mental health disorders and ability to receive help via live chat. Available in English and Spanish Monday through Friday8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET. You can also call their number for treatment referral routing services (this is not a crisis line). Prison Talk Prisoner Family Support, Information & Assistance Community Helpful Forums: Drug & Alcohol Treatment & Rehabilitation Mental Health Employment Suicide Prevention Lifeline TALK (8255) TTY The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also access the Lifeline Crisis chat online between 2pm and 9

10 MISSISSIPPI RE-ENTRY GUIDE am (EST). Specific Veterans services are also offered. Get help for yourself or for someone else. Treatment Advocacy Center 200 N. Glebe Road, Suite 801 Arlington, VA (fax) The Treatment Advocacy Center is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating barriers to the timely and effective treatment of severe mental illness. Site includes information on treatment, Civil Commitment and other legal resources. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network Duke University, NC 411 West Chapel Hill Street, Suite 200 Durham, NC Fax The National Child Traumatic Stress Network was established to improve access to care, treatment, and services for traumatized children and adolescents exposed to traumatic events. The Trevor Project Lifeline: p.m. - 8:00 p.m. ET / 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. PT at Sex Offenders Stop It Now! 351 Pleasant Street Suite B-319 Northampton, MA Call PREVENT ( ) Fax The Resource Guide on this website lists a number of relevant organizations including resources for referrals for treatment providers. Stop It Now! also maintains a Helpline for adults who are at risk for sexually abusing a child, for friends and family members of sexual abusers and/or victims, and for parents of children with sexual behavior problems. The toll-free Helpline is confidential and no caller ID is used. The Helpline also offers an service to answer individuals questions and provide guidance and resources. Substance Abuse Alcohol Screening Services find locations for treatment take an online alcohol screening learn more about alcohol consumption/abuse Crisis intervention and Suicide prevention for LGBT youth. Trevor Lifeline - The only national 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention lifeline for LGBTQ young people (ages 13-24), available at TrevorChat - A free, confidential, secure instant messaging service for LGBTQ youth that provides live help from trained volunteer counselors, open daily from 3:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. PT. TrevorText - A free, confidential, secure service in which LGBTQ young people can text a trained Trevor counselor for support and crisis intervention, available Fridays from 4:00 10

11 Statewide Resources Administrative Department of Public Safety P.O. Box 958 Jackson, MS Mississippi Department of Employment Security Unemployment P.O. Box 1699 Jackson, MS mdes.ms.gov Unemployment Compensation Provides eligible individuals with temporary, partial wage replacement so they can meet their basic financial needs while looking for a new job. In order to be eligible for benefits, jobless workers must demonstrate that they have worked, usually measured by amount of wages and/or weeks of work, and must be able and available for work. This means that unless you were employed in the year before you apply for benefits, you will not be eligible for unemployment insurance. No unemployment benefits are payable for any month that you are in jail or prison. Mississippi Vital Records State Department of Health 222 Marketridge Drive in Ridgeland, off Highland Colony Parkway P.O. Box 1700 Jackson, MS html Obtain certified copies of: Birth Certificate ($15.00) Death and Marriage Certificate ($10.00) Criminal Justice ACLU of Mississippi P.O. Box 2242 Jackson, MS office@aclu-ms.org Attn: Legal Intake Coordinator Through advocacy, education, and litigation, the ACLU of Mississippi defends and protects the constitutional rights of Mississippians across the state. One of the ACLU of Mississippi s main projects involves reforming the state s criminal justice system and protecting the rights of inmates. State prisoners and jail detainees who have experienced any form of sexual abuse or staff sexual misconduct can write to the ACLU for assistance. Inmate Legal Assistance Program htm Mississippi Attorney General s Office 550 High St. Ste Jackson, MS Justice Building msag05@ago.state.ms.us Employers and service providers may obtain information from the state attorney general regarding: Occupational bars The licensing of individuals with criminal records in certain jobs Whether the state has laws that limit what employers may ask job applicants protections against employment discrimination based on a criminal record Hours Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. 5 p.m. Public counter closes at 4:30 p.m 11

12 MISSISSIPPI RE-ENTRY GUIDE Mississippi Criminal Information Center Criminal Record Repository Records Division P.O. Box 958 Jackson, MS Contact: Will Spann, Chief Information Officer Individuals may contact this center to: Obtain a copy of their state rap sheet Learn about the process of sealing, expunging or cleaning it Find out who is legally entitled to have access to his or her record The Mississippi Criminal Information Center will make a person s criminal record available for inspection by him/her or his/her attorney upon written request, payment of a fee and receipt of an executed release form. A letter of request must be submitted to the Center at the address listed. The Special Processing staff will contact the individual or his/ her attorney to schedule a time for review of the record, if any record exists. Mississippi Department of Corrections Investigation Division 723 North President Street Jackson, MS The Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC) Investigation Division is the investigative arm of the agency. It consists of Investigative Units located at each State prison (MSP, CMCF, SMCI, and Central Office Headquarters) and handles issues such as sexual assault. Inmates who have been sexually assaulted in a MDOC facility can contact the Investigation Division to report the assault and any concerns regarding the handling of investigations into such abuse. Mississippi Department of Corrections Pre-Release Program 723 N. President St. Jackson, MS or lcole@mdoc.state.ms.us Contact: Lora Cole, Deputy Commissioner The major duties and responsibilities of the Pre-Release Program are categorized into eight primary services: Employability skills training Counseling Job development Residence development Remedial education Adult literacy in the workplace Transportation and follow-up/aftercare Pre-Release Programs are located in three prisons and three community work centers around the state. Mississippi Department of Corrections Region I 301 W. Sunflower Rd. Cleveland, MS The Mississippi Department of Corrections Community Corrections Division is responsible for the supervision of probationers, parolees, residents in the restitution centers, inmates in community work centers, and those who are in intensive supervision or earned release supervision programs. Region I includes the following counties: Alcorn, Attala, Benton, Bolivar, Calhoun, Carroll, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Coahoma, Desoto, Grenada, Itawamba, Lafayette, Lee, Leflore, Marshall, Monroe, Montgomery, Panola, Pontotoc, Prentiss, Quitman, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tippah, Tishomingo, Tunica, Union, Washington, Webster, Winston, Yalobusha Mississippi Department of Corrections Region II Community Corrections Division 421 W. Pascagoula St. Jackson, MS The Mississippi Department of Corrections Community Corrections Division is responsible for the supervision of probationers, parolees, residents in the restitution centers, inmates in community work centers, and those who are in intensive supervision or earned release supervision programs. 12

13 Region II includes the following counties: Clarke, Clay, Covington, Hinds, Holmes, Humphreys, Issaquena, Jasper, Kemper, Lauderdale, Leake, Lowndes, Madison, Neshoba, Newton, Noxubee, Oktibbeha, Rankin, Scott, Sharkey, Simpson, Smith, Warren, Wayne, Yazoo Mississippi Department of Corrections Region III Community Corrections Division 5912 U.S. Highway 49 South Space B-6 Cloverleaf Mall Hattiesburg, MS The Mississippi Department of Corrections Community Corrections Division is responsible for the supervision of probationers, parolees, residents in the restitution centers, inmates in community work centers, and those who are in intensive supervision or earned release supervision programs. Region III includes the following counties: Adams, Amite, Claiborne, Copiah, Forrest, Franklin, George, Greene, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson Davis, Jones, Lamar, Lawrence, Lincoln, Marion, Perry, Pearl River, Pike, Stone, Walthall, Wilkinson Mississippi Department of Corrections Serious and Violent Offender Reentry Initiative 732 N. President St. Jackson, MS or Contact: Christopher B. Epps, Commissioner or Christy Gutherz The Mississippi Department of Corrections will focus efforts on recidivism for 200 adult offenders and 75 juvenile offenders reentering Hinds County. Through the reentry project, the department will partner with various service agencies to address recidivism, substance abuse, and physical and mental health issues and to support workforce participation, housing, family reunification, faith-based support, and mentoring. Mississippi Department of Employment Security Federal Bonding Program 1235 Echelon Parkway Jackson, MS mdes.ms.gov Contact: Wayne Miley The Federal Bonding Program provides fidelity bonding insurance coverage to individuals with criminal histories and other high-risk job applicants who are qualified, but fail to get jobs because regular commercial bonding is denied due to their backgrounds. U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) created the Federal Bonding Program (FBP) as an employer job-hire incentive that guaranteed the job honesty of at-risk job seekers. Federal financing of Fidelity Bond insurance, issued freeof-charge to employers, enabled the delivery of bonding services as a unique job placement tool to assist exoffenders, and other at-risk/hard-to-place job applicants. Mississippi Department of Rehabilitative Services 1281 Highway 51 Madison, MS Rehabilitative Service assists individuals to secure gainful employment matching their abilities and capabilities through local job searches and awareness of selfemployment and telecommuting opportunities. Only ex-offenders with a mental or physical disability will be eligible. Mississippi Innocence Project P.O. Box 1848 University, MS Fax mississippiinnocence.org The Mississippi Innocence Project is committed to providing the highest quality legal representation to its clients: Mississippi state prisoners serving significant periods of incarceration who have cognizable claims of wrongful conviction. 13

14 MISSISSIPPI RE-ENTRY GUIDE The Project currently accepts applications for legal representation from prisoners convicted in Mississippi who believe that they may have a claim of actual innocence. Actual innocence means that a person had no involvement with the crime they were convicted. The Project only reviews cases in north Mississippi counties. If your county is not listed, please visit the Innocence Project of New Orleans website for assistance: The Project only accepts application requests directly from prisoners and only by mail. To request an application, a prisoner should contact the Project by mail. State of Mississippi Parole Board 660 North Street Suite 100A Jackson, MS Fax State Ombudsman MS Department of Human Services, Division of Aging 750 North State Street Jackson, MS Fax Contact: Anniece McLemore Work Release Program Community Work Centers 723 N. President St. Jackson, MS or lcole@mdoc.state.ms.us Contact: Lora Cole, Deputy Commissioner Inmates work without pay for charitable organizations doing such work as janitorial services, mechanic work and roadside beautification. To be eligible, an inmate must: be within seven years of release pass drug and alcohol tests be physically able to do work have no escape charges not be convicted of: a sex crime, child abuse conviction, other convictions involving a minor or disabled person, a weapon, or a violent crime. Domestic Violence MS Coalition Against Domestic Violence P.O. Box 4703 Jackson, MS Lifeline: SAFE (7233) (National Hotline-If you need immediate assistance after hours) (state hotline) (Local) (fax) support@mcadv.org Education Public Awareness Victim Referral Services Clearing House/ Resource Library Networking Education Mississippi Virtual Community College The Mississippi Virtual Community College (MSVCC) is a consortium of Mississippi s 15 community colleges that makes it possible for these colleges to leverage their distance learning resources -- including faculty, courses, support services, and technology. Through the MSVCC, students may take courses from community colleges anywhere in Mississippi while getting support services from a local college. You can find contact information for your local institution on the website. Mississippi Community College Board Office of Adult Basic Education North West Mississippi Community College ABEGED ) Fax The Adult Basic Education Programs administered by the Community College Board are designed to offer 14

15 opportunities that will enhance the skills and abilities of individuals preparing for the workforce or preparing for additional educational opportunities. ABE provides instruction in the skill areas of reading, writing, arithmetic, employment skills, and basic science and social studies. Classes feature individualized and group instruction. Many classes use computer-assisted learning. Instruction is conducted in schools, industries and other varied community sites. Programs Teacher Aide Certification Beginning and Intermediate ABE Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced English as a Second Language (ESL) GED testing and information on local testing sites We Provide Paid instructors Material for class at no cost to student Practice for taking the GED test Individualized lessons to meet student needs Confidential assessment and counseling with student about progress Preparation and testing for teacher aide certification Employment Mississippi Dept. of Employment Security mdes.ms.gov Online services for job searching Online unemployment services Get information about upcoming events including job fairs The goal of the Mississippi Department of Employment Security is to help Mississippians get jobs. Through our network of WIN Job Centers, MDES matches qualified, prospective employees with employers. Also at the Job Centers, Mississippians can obtain job training to sharpen their work skills and make themselves more competitive in the job market. The Workforce Investment Network (WIN) WIN Job Centers are one-stop career centers. Available services include: job search and placement assistance internet access for job searches and resume posting access to computers, fax machines, copiers resume preparation software interview tips labor market information career assistance for individuals with criminal records services for veterans information on unemployment insurance benefits career and aptitude assessment information on and referral to training information on available math and reading assistance information on and referral to child care, transportation and other support services referrals to rehabilitation services Emergency Assistance Division of Community Services Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) 750 North State Street Jackson, MS or Offers financial assistance to eligible households to help pay the cost of home energy bills and other energy related services. Households may qualify for regular LIHEAP assistance and/or the Energy Crisis (emergency) Intervention Program (ECIP) for natural gas, wood, electricity, liquid petroleum propane/butane gas and other energy related services. Individuals must be within 60 percent of the State Median Income at the time of the submission of their application. What you need to apply: Valid Photo ID Social Security Card Birth Certificate Proof of Income Proof of Residence Health The Partnership for Prescription Assistance for Mississippi Helps qualifying patients without prescription drug coverage get free or low-cost medicines through the public or private program that s right for them. 15

16 MISSISSIPPI RE-ENTRY GUIDE Other Prescription Assistance Resources Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Medicaid/CHIP Programs Co-Payment Programs Participating Patient Assistance Programs Free / Low-Cost Health Clinic Finder Savings Cards Legal Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities 2 Old River Place, Suite M Jackson, MS (V/TTY) Relay Fax It is the mission of the Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities (MSCCD) to expand opportunities and enhance the quality of life for children, adolescents and adults with disabilities and their families and empower these individuals to reach for their full potential in every aspect of life and to be a voice for families, advocates, consumers and professional representing the interests and needs of people with disabilities. Just Advocacy 603 Mill Branch Road Pearl, MS Fax: Mary Troupe, Director mary@justadvocacy.org A voluntary organization that offers independent advocacy services, facilitated self-advocacy and resources for people with disabilities and families. We advocate for all people with disabilities regardless of the type of disability or the age of the person. NAACP Mississippi 1072 W. Lynch Street, Suite 10 Jackson, MS Fax The vision of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is to ensure a society in which all individuals have equal rights and there is no racial hatred or racial discrimination. The mission of the NAACP is to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. You can file a discrimination complaint on their website. Ron Welch Prison rights attorney P O Box 4589 Jackson, MS Southern Poverty Law Center The Southern Poverty Law Center is dedicated to fighting hate and bigotry and to seeking justice for the most vulnerable members of our society. Using litigation, education, and other forms of advocacy, the Center works toward the day when the ideals of equal justice and equal opportunity will be a reality. Mental Health Impel Group MS A group of licensed ministers that provide free counseling services to individuals who otherwise could not afford help. We provide motivational speaking to groups of all size and we train individuals to motivate and counsel others. We offer a certificate of training when complete. Mississippi Department of Mental Health 239 North Lamar Street 1101 Robert E. Lee Building Jackson, MS (fax) DMH Helpline

17 The DMH Helpline is available 24-hours a day, seven days a week. A variety of services for mental health, intellectual and developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, and Alzheimer s disease and other dementia are available across the state. Regional community mental health centers (CMHCs) operate under the supervision of regional commissions appointed by county boards of supervisors comprising their respective service areas. The 14 CMHCs make available a range of community-based mental health, substance abuse, and in some regions, intellectual/developmental disabilities services. CMHC governing authorities are considered regional and not state-level entities. DMH is responsible for certifying, monitoring, and assisting CMHCs. CMHCs are the primary service providers with whom DMH contracts to provide community-based mental health and substance abuse services. Mississippi Families as Allies 840 E. River Place, Suite 500 Jackson, MS National alliance on Mental Health of Mississippi or Local_NAMI&Template=/CustomSource/AffiliateFinder. cfm&state=ms The NAMI Helpline offers support and is staffed primarily by trained volunteers who can answer general questions about mental illness, provide referrals to local affilitate support groups, and offer a supportive, listening ear. NAMI also provides up-to-date brochures and fact sheets about mental illnesses, treatment options, and other issues faced by families struggling with mental illness. The NAMI HelpLine can be reached by calling 1 (800) 950-NAMI (6264), Monday through Friday, 10 am- 6 pm, Eastern time. NAMI also offers local support groups for peer to peer meetings and families. For days and time of these groups call or visit the NAMI website. Hotlines AIDS Task Force AIDS testing and support resources Alcohol and Drug Abuse Help Line A national hotline that answers 24 hours a day, 7days a week. Someone will tell you about alcohol and drug abuse organizations in your area. The call is free and very confidential. Breastfeeding Information Line Child Abuse Report child abuse Child Care Complaints Report complaints about child care facilities Child Care Facility Complaints Childhelp A.CHILD ( ) Child abuse victims, parents, concerned individuals can call to speak with a crisis counselor Children s Medical Program Blake Clinic msdhsite/_static/41,0,163. html#contact The Children s Medical Program provides medical and surgical care to children with chronic or disabling conditions. The service is available to state residents under 21 years of age. If your child was born with a disabling condition, or developed a disability or chronic illness, we may be able to help. The Children s Medical program can organize care for your child s condition, provide some equipment and medications, and arrange for physical, occupational and other therapies. If your child has a special health care need, contact us for information or referral sources. Eligibility is 17

18 MISSISSIPPI RE-ENTRY GUIDE based on family income, family size, type of condition and estimated cost of treatment. Crisis Hotline Speak to a trained counselor for any issues/crisis you might be experiencing. Darkness to Light 866-FOR-LIGHT ( ) When you call the Darkness to Light Helpline, you will immediately be routed to an information and referral service representative in your state who can refer you to sexual abuse resources in your community. You may or may not be connected to a crisis and/or listening line. If you just need a confidential listening ear, inquire about local listening lines when you call. If you believe you are in need of immediate assistance, call your local police or Child Protective Services. People They Help: Children and adults needing local information or resources about sexual abuse Early Intervention Systems Elder abuse hotline Mississippi Department of Human Services Child/Adult Abuse Neglect Hotline Hotline: (statewide only) or (601) U.S. Administration on Aging webspinner@mdhs.state.ms.us Report Vulnerable Person Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation Marijuana Anonymous Information on a 12 step recovery program. Get access to online and phone support groups at the website. The Mississippi Council on Problem and Compulsive Gambling Hotline Speak to a counselor over the hotline (those with a problem or friends/family members of someone with a problem may call) or visit the website for referral services. Mississippi State Troopers Dial *47 Public Health Emergencies SAFE Alternative Self-Injury Hotline DONT-CUT Selfinjury.com info@selfinjury.com talk STD/HIV Disease Reporting The Statewide Domestic Violence hotline Tobacco Quitline QUIT-NOW Vaccinations Women s Health Women, Infants and Children (WIC) : Community Information and Referral Services is an easy to remember telephone number that, where available, connects people with important community services and volunteer opportunities. 211 can also be accessed through their website. Searches for assistance can be conducted by category search or zip code. Please note those using Sprint and C.Spire cell phone service are not able to use 211 to obtain assistance. Those with Sprint and C.Spire cell phone service should dial Mississippi

19 at the following phone numbers: (601) or (866) We receive calls regarding health services; food; clothing; housing; government resources; education; employment; counseling; support groups; recreation; community groups; services for children, youth, families and older adults; and many more topics Mississippi is available Monday-Friday from 7:00am- 6:00pm. Other dialing codes for Mississippi: 311: Non-Emergency Police and Other Governmental Services 411: Local Directory Assistance 511: Traffic and Transportation Information 611: Repair Service 711: Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) 811: One Call Services to Protect Pipeline and Utilities from Excavation Damage 911: Emergency Shelter Mississippi Housing Search MSHousingSearch.org was created to help people list and find safe and decent, affordable, accessible and, when necessary, emergency housing. This web-based service, supported by a toll-free call center, provides information for the general public as well as for housing professionals seeking vital resources for their clients. a free public housing locator that s available for anyone. Created in partnership with the Mississippi Division of Medicaid (DOM) along with other state agencies. FREE searching and listing of rental housing Detailed listings that can include pictures, maps, eligibility requirements (if applicable), and information about nearby amenities such as hospitals and schools Helpful tools, including an affordability calculator, rental checklist, and information about renters rights and responsibilities 24/7 access online and support from a toll-free, bilingual call center, available at , Mon - Fri, 8:00 am - 7:00 pm CDT A resource for families displaced during times of disaster Search by rent, size, location, proximity to your work, and more Detailed, up-to-date listings with photos Listings of market-rate rentals, subsidized housing, special-needs housing, and more The Affordable Housing Network 2885 Sanford Ave SW #17431 Grandville, Michigan PublicHousing.com phousingmanning@gmail.com Provides a searchable listing of available and affordable housing. This is a free service. Transportation Delta Bus Line deltabus@bellsouth.net Due to increased fuel costs, fares may change without notice. Please call for current fares. Delta Rides Delta Rides is a network of non-profit organizations that provide transportation services within the Mississippi Delta region. While many of these organizations provide special services for seniors, persons with disabilities or Medicaid clients, they also provide general public transit services that are available to anyone. Gives residents reliable, affordable access to: Jobs Training Programs Colleges Medical Facilities Shopping Recreation Several transportation agencies provide public transit services in the region, including fixed route bus and curb-tocurb van services. Fixed Route Buses: Bus routes which connect communities are shown on the map. Call the transit agency for stop locations and times. Curb-to-curb Vans: These services are available by calling at least one day ahead to schedule a trip. The map shows which transportation provider offers curb-to-curb service in 19

20 MISSISSIPPI RE-ENTRY GUIDE specific areas. Women and Families Mississippi s Access and Visitation Program (MAV-P) Division of Family Foundation & Support Mississippi Access & Visitation Office 750 North State Street Jackson, MS or Designed for noncustodial parents to have access to visit their children as specified in a court order or divorce decree. Assistance with voluntary agreements for visitation schedules is provided to parents who have a court order. Mediation Parent Education Counseling Visitation Enforcement Services include: Neutral Drop-Off/Pick-Up for parents and their children Visitation Compliance Monitoring Development Of Parenting Plans Mississippi Child Care Payment Program P. O. Box 352 Jackson, MS ccpayment@mdhs.ms.gov The Child Care Certificate Program is a federally funded program designed to provide parents with assistance with child care tuition. Parents may choose any type of child care while participating in this program. Parents who meet the income and work requirement for participation in the Certificate Program will be responsible for paying their child care provider a monthly co-payment fee Mississippi State Department of Health-Licensed Child Care Facilities msdhsite/_static/30,332,183,438.html Follow link to search for Licensed Child Care Facilities in Mississippi. 20