Choctaw, Noxubee, Oktibbeha, Clay, Webster, and Winston County assistance programs.
While the number of resources in the region is limited, there are still several non-profit agencies, charities, and assistance programs for low income families in the region of Oktibbeha and Winston County. The resources are also available for nearby counties as well.
Prairie Opportunity, Inc. is the community action agency. They are part of the nationwide network and are committed to fighting poverty in partnership with low income families. Case managers also can direct clients to financial assistance programs and other aid. They operate from a few different centers in Oktibbeha, Choctaw and other counties. The Neighborhood Service Center from Prairie may offer some or all of the following.
Housing assistance is available. This will usually come in the form of a partial rent or mortgage payment. If you are currently homeless, then funds may be available to pay a security deposit on a new apartment or home.
Basic needs can be met by Prairie Opportunity. This will include clothing for work or school or household goods. Some vouchers may be available too.
Utility assistance in the region is offered. The main resources are weatherization, which will help people save energy. LIHEAP is available for paying electric bills.
A food pantry may have groceries, or holiday meals. Or get information on federal resources such as SNAP food stamps or WIC applications. The locations are great for short term needs.
Other assistance from the community action agency includes medications, VITA income tax filing, and information on loan programs for emergency expenses, whether it is a rent payment or utility bill.
The main centers are at 16 Harmon Circle in Ackerman, MS 39735. Call (662) 285-6291. Another location is at 501 Highway 12 West, Starkville, Mississippi 39759. Phone (662) 323-3397. A number of other assistance programs are administered as well for residents of Webster, Choctaw, and Winston County. Read more on help from Prairie Opportunity.
Financial assistance, including food pantries
Helping Hands of Starkville offers limited financial support. Qualified low income families, seniors, or the disabled may receive assistance for paying utility bills, including water and electric. The site is at 603 University Drive in Starkville. Dial (662) 323-1173
Peter's Rock Temple is a pantry for the needy in Oktibbeha as well as other counties such as Clay. Groceries, formula, fruits, and more is for those families in need of food. Main phone (662) 323-5119.
Living Manna Food Pantry is a year round food bank. During the summer months a computer lab and help is offered from the non-profit charity. 941 S. Eshman Avenue, West Point, Mississippi 39773. Dial (662) 494-8788 for more information.
Salvation Army corp centers – These locations can offer referrals. Clients can use on site food pantries or clothing closets. In rare cases there may be emergency funds to be used for rent to prevent an eviction or utility bills. Or get information on shelters and free Christmas assistance in the Oktibbeha County region. 501 Mississippi 12, Starkville, Mississippi 39759. Telephone - (662) 324-3304
Regional community clinics
With a large segment of the population either lacking full insurance coverage, or struggling to pay for their health care costs, then a free community clinic may be turned to.
Cornerstone Clinic – Offers medical care for the uninsured. The center is at 309 South Church Avenue in Louisville. (662) 773-5599.
Louisville Medical Associates – This is another government certified rural clinic. A number of patients, many children and seniors, receive care. Doctors, nurses, and medical professionals provide assistance to the less fortunate. 564 East Main Street, Louisville, MS 39339. Telephone - (662) 773-7500
Oktibbeha Family Medical Center is also based in Starkville. This clinic is just one location that is part of the Greater Merdian Health Clinic (GMHC). It is a family oriented health care center that addresses a patients primary needs.
Macon Medical Clinic – This site is available to the general public. A sliding fee scale is in place for the low income or working poor. Those without insurance, or if their income is low enough, may receive free attention from staff. The center is at 602 North Jefferson Street. Main number is (662) 726-5831.
Golden Triangle Rural Family Health Center – Provides services, including back checkups, information on prescription discounts, and other support. 1237 Old Highway 82 East Clayton Village, Starkville, Mississippi 39759. Main number for intake or appointments is (662) 320-7001.
Macon Primary Care is a federal government Certified Rural Health Clinic. This means the center needs to provide medical and/or dental care to patients regardless of income. Checkups, physicals, immunizations and more is offered. (662) 726-4264
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