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Local Community Support in East Mississippi

Where to turn when a family needs help, and how to help the neighbors who need it.

Rise Above Poverty Scholarship CommitteeMay 26, 20264 min read

Neighbors helping neighbors

East Mississippi has a long tradition of neighbors helping neighbors. Local churches, civic clubs, food pantries, and volunteer fire departments are the backbone of small-town life. When we talk about supporting students, we are really talking about extending that same tradition into education.

Where to look for help

If your family is going through a hard season, please do not go it alone. The United Way, Mississippi Food Network, local churches, and community action agencies all offer assistance with food, utilities, and housing. Our Resources page includes trusted starting points.

Public libraries are one of the most underused community resources. In addition to books, most libraries offer free internet, printing, tutoring referrals, and quiet study space.

How to help

The simplest way to help your neighbors is to notice. Watch for the small signs — the student who is quiet at lunch, the family who missed the last two church potlucks. A phone call or a plate of food can change everything.

If you have more to give, sponsor a scholarship, host a workshop, or volunteer to review applications. Community-scale problems need community-scale solutions.

Support the next student

Your gift funds scholarships, books, and mentoring for East Mississippi students.