Disability services in Mississippi play a vital role in supporting residents with diverse needs. These services aim to provide resources, support, and accommodations to individuals with disabilities, helping them lead independent and fulfilling lives. Mississippi’s efforts focus on improving accessibility, offering vocational rehabilitation, and ensuring that educational, healthcare, and community-based services are available to all eligible individuals. A range of programs across the state assist individuals with different types of disabilities, including physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2023, 824,947 adults in Mississippi have a disability. This is equal to 36% or over 1 in 3 adults in Mississippi. These numbers underscore the importance of accessible and effective services designed to meet the unique needs of this population.
Mississippi’s disability services emphasize integration and inclusion, aiming to create opportunities for people with disabilities to participate fully in all areas of life, including employment, education, and social activities. Many individuals rely on various forms of assistance, including personal care services, transportation accommodations, and assistive technologies, to navigate daily tasks and maintain their independence.
Navigating the system of disability services can sometimes be complex, but several state agencies and service organizations are dedicated to providing guidance and support. The resources outlined below offer essential information and direct assistance for individuals and families seeking disability-related services in Mississippi. Whether the need is for healthcare access, housing support, or vocational training, Mississippi provides a range of services to ensure individuals with disabilities have the tools and opportunities to thrive within their communities.
Mississippi Disability Employment Services
In Mississippi, several state and non-profit organizations provide critical employment services for individuals with disabilities.
The Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services provides employment support through vocational rehabilitation programs designed to assist individuals with disabilities in obtaining and maintaining employment.
The Mississippi Access to Care Network offers resources and connections to employment and community support services, helping individuals with disabilities access job opportunities.
Mississippi Works is an online platform that connects job seekers, including those with disabilities, to employment opportunities across the state. It also provides access to job fairs and tools to assist with finding the right job match.
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) supports veterans with disabilities by connecting them to job fairs and employers committed to hiring veterans with disabilities.
Lifeworks Employment Support assists people with disabilities in Mississippi in maintaining their jobs and advancing their careers by providing tailored support services and employer education.
The Arc of Mississippi offers employment services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, promoting inclusion and workforce participation through specialized programs.
Mississippi Employment Security Commission provides assistance for people with disabilities seeking employment, offering job training programs and placement services.
The Mississippi Partnership for Employment works to increase employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities by coordinating between service providers and employers.
The Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities advocates for equal access to employment opportunities for people with disabilities and provides employment-related resources.
The Governor’s Job Fair Network partners with employers across the state to host job fairs that are inclusive of individuals with disabilities.
Mississippi Independent Living Services
In Mississippi, several organizations provide essential services for independent living and housing assistance to individuals with disabilities.
Living Independence for Everyone (LIFE) of Mississippi is a prominent center for independent living that serves the entire state. LIFE offers various programs to empower people with significant disabilities, including skills training, peer support, and advocacy services. Their mission is to help individuals live independently and engage fully in their communities.
The Institute for Disability Studies at the University of Southern Mississippi offers a variety of housing programs, including Project Recovery Rapid Re-Housing, which helps individuals with disabilities transition into stable housing.
The South Mississippi Housing Authority provides emergency housing vouchers for individuals at risk of homelessness, including those with disabilities. They assist with rental assistance and housing stability services.
The Arc of Mississippi focuses on promoting independent living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including advocating for accessible housing options.
HUD’s Mississippi Housing Assistance offers supportive housing for individuals with disabilities, providing resources such as Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities.
Mississippi United to End Homelessness (MUTEH) is part of the state’s Continuum of Care network, providing housing assistance and support to individuals with disabilities facing homelessness.
Open Doors Homeless Coalition offers housing services to those with disabilities along the Gulf Coast, including assistance with emergency housing and rental stability.
The Mississippi Division of Medicaid helps connect individuals with disabilities to housing services through a free locator service that supports finding affordable, accessible housing.
The Mississippi Department of Human Services offers community services that assist with housing and independent living support for individuals with disabilities, helping to improve quality of life and self-sufficiency.
The Mississippi Regional Housing Authority VI administers Section 8 vouchers and other housing support programs to help individuals with disabilities find and maintain affordable housing.
The National Housing Trust Fund operates in Mississippi to support the construction, rehabilitation, and preservation of affordable housing for extremely low-income individuals, including those with disabilities.
Mississippi Rehabilitation Services
The Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) provides comprehensive vocational rehabilitation services, helping individuals with disabilities to achieve employment and independence. Their services include vocational evaluation, job training, assistive technology, and supported employment programs.
AbilityWorks, a division of MDRS, offers job training and placement services tailored to individuals with disabilities, focusing on enhancing employability and building work skills.
The Addie McBryde Rehabilitation Center for the Blind specializes in vocational training and rehabilitation for individuals who are visually impaired or blind, assisting them in achieving independence through various support programs.
Project START (Success Through Assistive Rehabilitative Technology) is a statewide program that provides assistive technology services and resources to Mississippians with disabilities. The program offers device loans, reutilization programs, and training on assistive technologies.
The Methodist Rehabilitation Center in Jackson offers rehabilitation services for individuals recovering from brain and spinal cord injuries, strokes, and other neurological conditions. Their programs focus on comprehensive rehabilitation to restore independence.
The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind provides specialized services to individuals who are blind or visually impaired, helping them to secure employment through vocational training, counseling, and assistive technology.
The Brain Injury Association of Mississippi offers support and rehabilitation services to individuals who have suffered traumatic brain injuries, helping them regain their independence through therapy and advocacy.
The Wilson Research Foundation at Methodist Rehabilitation Center supports rehabilitation research and provides resources to improve the quality of life for individuals with neurological injuries.
The Mississippi TBI/SCI Trust Fund provides financial assistance for individuals with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and spinal cord injuries (SCI), covering rehabilitation services and assistive technologies.
The Mississippi Project SEARCH is a unique employment program that provides training and support to young adults with disabilities as they transition from school to the workforce.
Mississippi Assistive Technology Services
Mississippi Project START is the state’s main assistive technology program, providing device loans, demonstrations, and reutilization to individuals with disabilities. Their services allow Mississippians to try and access a wide range of assistive technologies.
The Disability Resource Center at Mississippi State University helps students access accommodations and assistive technologies, ensuring equal opportunities in academic settings.
The Mississippi Department of Education offers assistive technology services through its Special Education division, supporting students with disabilities in public schools with the tools they need to succeed.
The Arc of Mississippi provides advocacy and assistive technology support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring they have access to tools that enhance independence.
AbilityWorks, under the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services, offers assistive technology to support job training and employment for individuals with disabilities.
The Addie McBryde Rehabilitation Center for the Blind provides specialized technology for individuals with visual impairments, helping them gain independence and employment through the use of assistive devices.
Mississippi Hearing-Vision Project focuses on assistive technology and training for individuals with dual sensory impairments, offering resources for communication and mobility.
The Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities advocates for assistive technology accessibility and offers resources to ensure individuals with disabilities can access the technology they need for daily living and independence.
Mississippi Assistive Technology Network connects individuals with a variety of assistive technology resources, including communication aids and mobility devices, to help them participate fully in the community.
Methodist Rehabilitation Center offers advanced assistive technology services as part of its rehabilitation programs for individuals recovering from brain or spinal injuries, stroke, or other neurological conditions.
Mississippi Disability Financial Assistance Services
The Social Security Administration offers comprehensive information on disability benefits, including how to apply, eligibility requirements, and the types of benefits available. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. Use the Social Security Field Office locator to find a location near you or call toll-free: 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. If you’re deaf or hard of hearing and use TTY equipment, you can call their TTY number at 1-800-325-0778.
The Mississippi Disability Determination Services evaluates and processes claims for disability benefits under the Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. You can reach them at 1-800-443-1000.
Disability financial assistance services in Mississippi provide critical support to individuals with disabilities, helping them access financial resources to maintain independence.
The Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission provides benefits to workers who are injured on the job, including wage replacement and medical benefits. Contact them at (601) 987-4200.
Mississippi Department of Human Services offers several public assistance programs including SNAP, TANF, and other financial aid to help low-income individuals and families, including those with disabilities.
The Mississippi Access to Care Network connects individuals to long-term services and supports, including financial resources and care management, to help them live independently.
Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid provides scholarships, grants, and forgivable loans for students with disabilities pursuing higher education.
The Arc of Mississippi supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by offering financial aid and advocacy services to help them access the resources they need.
The Mississippi Development Authority provides assistance through various programs aimed at helping people with disabilities secure housing and employment through grants and support services.
Disability Rights Mississippi offers legal advocacy and assistance, helping individuals with disabilities access financial resources and benefits they are entitled to under state and federal law.
Mississippi Partnership for Employment works to increase employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities, helping them gain financial independence.
The Mississippi Housing Partnership provides affordable housing assistance and financial aid to people with disabilities to ensure they have access to safe and supportive living environments.
The Mississippi Home Corporation offers down payment assistance and other housing-related financial services to individuals with disabilities seeking to buy or maintain homes.
South Mississippi Housing and Development Corporation provides emergency rental and housing assistance, including financial support for those at risk of homelessness due to disabilities.
Mississippi Disability Transportation Services
Disability transportation services in Mississippi provide essential support, helping individuals with disabilities access medical appointments, employment, and other daily activities.
Mississippi Department of Transportation’s Connect MS offers public transit services across the state, providing wheelchair-accessible options and connections to local communities for individuals with disabilities.
The ADA Paratransit Service in several counties, including Harrison and Hinds, provides specialized transportation for individuals with disabilities who cannot use standard public transit services.
Ride the Smile serves northeast Mississippi, offering transportation services tailored for seniors and individuals with disabilities to access medical appointments, employment, and social services.
The Delta Rides region in Northwest Mississippi provides transportation for medical, employment, and other essential trips, with services designed to support rural areas.
TRANS-CON in Central Mississippi offers non-emergency medical transportation, vanpool services, and transportation for students with disabilities to local colleges.
The Southern Connect region provides non-medical transportation services for individuals with disabilities in South Mississippi, including employment and college transportation.
Team Adaptive in Biloxi offers transportation and mobility services, including accessible vehicles for individuals with disabilities needing assistance with daily travel.
JNR Transportation in Jackson offers specialized transport services, including non-emergency medical trips and other essential transportation for people with disabilities.
Mobile One NET in Hattiesburg provides non-emergency transportation services, helping individuals with disabilities travel to medical appointments and daily activities.
American Medical Response operates across Jackson, providing non-emergency medical transportation and wheelchair-accessible services for individuals with disabilities.
Mississippi Disability Childcare Services
Disability childcare services in Mississippi offer essential support to families, helping children with disabilities access inclusive and specialized care.
The Mississippi Department of Human Services offers the Child Care Payment Program (CCPP), which provides financial assistance to families for childcare, including specialized care for children with disabilities.
The Mississippi Head Start Association promotes school readiness for children from low-income families, including children with disabilities, offering inclusive educational and developmental programs.
The Mississippi Low-Income Child Care Initiative (MLICCI) works to improve access to affordable childcare for low-income families, including those with children with special needs, by advocating for better policies and support.
The Mississippi Department of Education provides early childhood education programs, including services designed to support children with disabilities, helping improve school readiness and developmental outcomes.
Child Care Aware of Mississippi helps families find local childcare providers that accommodate children with disabilities and offers resources on accessing financial assistance.
The Mississippi State Department of Health offers the Early Intervention Program, First Steps, which provides early intervention services for infants and toddlers at risk for developmental delays.
Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs is a program that provides specialized medical care and support for children with chronic or disabling conditions, helping families access necessary services.
The Mississippi Early Learning Alliance works to expand high-quality early learning opportunities, including inclusive childcare settings for children with disabilities.
The Arc of Mississippi provides respite care, advocacy, and support services for families of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring access to essential resources.
The United Cerebral Palsy of Mississippi offers inclusive childcare and educational programs for children with disabilities, promoting physical and cognitive development in an integrated setting.
Mississippi Disability Recreational Services
Disability recreational services in Mississippi offer inclusive activities and programs designed to engage individuals with disabilities in physical, social, and creative pursuits.
The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks offers adaptive hunting and fishing opportunities for individuals with disabilities, including special access points and seasons designed to enhance outdoor recreation.
The Mississippi Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and competitions for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, fostering physical fitness and personal growth.
The Mississippi Paralysis Association supports individuals with mobility impairments through recreational therapy programs, including adapted sports and activities designed to improve well-being.
Camp Looking Glass is a non-profit organization that offers summer camp programs and year-round recreational activities for children and adults with developmental disabilities.
The Mississippi Access to Care Network provides information on accessible parks, trails, and recreational facilities throughout the state, helping individuals with disabilities find inclusive outdoor activities.
The Arc of Mississippi offers recreational programs and social activities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including day programs, outings, and fitness activities.
The Mississippi Adaptive Sports organization promotes wheelchair basketball, track and field, and other sports for individuals with physical disabilities, enhancing physical fitness and teamwork.
The Mississippi Gulf Coast YMCA offers inclusive swimming and fitness programs that cater to individuals with disabilities, providing a supportive environment for physical activity.
Mississippi Youth Programs includes recreational activities tailored for children with disabilities, promoting social interaction and physical engagement in community settings.
Leaps of Faith Mississippi offers equine-assisted therapy and recreational horseback riding programs for individuals with disabilities, combining physical activity with therapeutic benefits.
Mississippi Disability Rights & Legal Services
Disability rights and legal services in Mississippi ensure individuals with disabilities have access to advocacy, legal representation, and the necessary resources to protect their rights.
Disability Rights Mississippi provides free legal advocacy and assistance to individuals with disabilities, helping them protect their rights in areas such as education, employment, and healthcare.
The Mississippi Center for Legal Services offers free civil legal aid to low-income residents, including those with disabilities, across central and southern Mississippi, handling issues like housing, disability benefits, and consumer rights.
The Mississippi Access to Justice Commission works to improve access to civil legal services for the underserved, including individuals with disabilities, ensuring they can navigate the legal system effectively.
North Mississippi Rural Legal Services provides free legal services to low-income and disabled individuals in northern Mississippi, assisting with disability benefits, housing, and family law.
The Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project offers pro bono legal services to low-income individuals, including those with disabilities, helping with family law, housing, and other civil matters.
The Arc of Mississippi advocates for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, offering support in navigating legal issues related to guardianship, education, and community inclusion.
Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services offers legal advocacy and support for individuals with disabilities to ensure their rights are upheld in employment and vocational settings.
The Mississippi Legal Services website is a directory of legal aid organizations across the state, connecting individuals with disabilities to resources and assistance for legal issues.
Mississippi Protection and Advocacy System offers protection and legal advocacy to individuals with disabilities, ensuring their civil rights are not violated in areas like healthcare, education, and employment.
The Mississippi Attorney General’s Office provides legal support and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, particularly in cases involving fraud, abuse, or consumer protection.
Mississippi Support Groups for People with Disabilities
Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center provides advocacy, resources, and training for parents of children with disabilities.
Disability Support Services at Southwest Mississippi Community College offers support services to students with disabilities, including accommodations and advocacy.
Brain Injury Association of Mississippi supports individuals with brain injuries and their families through resources, advocacy, and support groups.
Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities promotes self-advocacy and provides resources for individuals with various disabilities.
Autism Mississippi offers support groups and resources for families and individuals affected by autism.
Mississippi Down Syndrome Society provides resources, advocacy, and support for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
United Cerebral Palsy of Mississippi offers resources and support for individuals with cerebral palsy, focusing on independence and inclusion.
Tourette Association of America Mississippi Chapter provides support groups for individuals with Tourette syndrome and their families.
NAMI Mississippi offers support groups for individuals with mental health conditions and their families.
Mississippi Multiple Sclerosis Society provides support and resources for individuals living with multiple sclerosis.
Mississippi Disability Housing Assistance
The HUD Section 811 Supportive Housing Program offers subsidized rental housing specifically designed for very low-income adults with disabilities, providing affordable, independent living options.
The Mississippi Regional Housing Authority VI administers Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, assisting low-income individuals, including those with disabilities, in affording safe and sanitary housing in the private market.
Mississippi Home Corporation provides down payment assistance and special home financing programs for individuals with disabilities looking to buy accessible homes.
The Mississippi Department of Human Services offers a variety of housing support services for people with disabilities through its Community Services Division, including rental assistance and housing modifications.
The MEMA Housing Assistance Program provides disaster-related housing assistance for individuals with disabilities, offering long-term recovery support in collaboration with other voluntary organizations.
South Mississippi Housing and Development Corporation offers emergency housing and rental assistance for individuals with disabilities, helping them secure affordable and stable housing.
The Mississippi Balance of State Continuum of Care works to prevent homelessness among individuals with disabilities, offering housing and supportive services to those at risk.
The Mississippi Division of Medicaid provides home and community-based services waivers, which include housing modifications for individuals with disabilities to live independently.
Mississippi United to End Homelessness offers housing solutions for individuals with disabilities facing homelessness, including permanent supportive housing and rental assistance.
Mississippi Housing Partnership provides housing counseling and down payment assistance programs specifically for individuals with disabilities seeking to purchase accessible homes.
Mississippi Disability Education Services
The Mississippi Department of Education Office of Special Education provides resources, accommodations, and programs for students with disabilities to ensure they receive appropriate education according to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Mississippi State University’s Disability Resource Center offers academic accommodations, housing adjustments, and support services to students with disabilities, promoting full access and inclusion on campus.
Mississippi State Personnel Development Grant REACH MS focuses on implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) across schools in Mississippi, creating more supportive learning environments for students with disabilities.
The Mississippi Special Education Parent Guide helps parents navigate the special education process, including understanding Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and legal rights for children with disabilities.
University of Southern Mississippi’s Student Accessibility Services provides academic accommodations and support to ensure that students with disabilities can succeed in their educational pursuits.
Mississippi School for the Blind offers specialized educational services for visually impaired students, providing tailored instruction to help them achieve academic success.
Mississippi School for the Deaf supports students with hearing impairments by offering specialized programs to promote communication skills and academic growth.
The Mississippi Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship provides financial assistance for students diagnosed with dyslexia to access appropriate therapy and specialized educational services.
Project START offers assistive technology services for students with disabilities to improve their learning experiences, including device loans and training.
Mississippi Bend AHEC provides health education programs that include specific support for students with disabilities interested in pursuing careers in healthcare fields.
Mississippi Disability Healthcare Services
The Mississippi Access to Care Network connects individuals with disabilities to healthcare services, including long-term care and other health-related resources throughout the state.
The Mississippi Division of Medicaid’s Elderly and Disabled Waiver provides home and community-based healthcare services for individuals over 21 years old, offering services such as personal care, respite care, and physical therapy for those who qualify.
The Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs Program provides specialized medical services and support for children with chronic health conditions or disabilities, ensuring they have access to necessary medical treatments.
The Mississippi Department of Human Services offers healthcare-related services as part of their public assistance programs, including Medicaid enrollment and referrals to healthcare providers for low-income families and individuals with disabilities.
The Mississippi State Department of Health provides a range of healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including early screening, immunizations, and chronic disease management.
United Cerebral Palsy of Mississippi offers healthcare services and therapeutic support for individuals with cerebral palsy, helping them manage their physical and medical needs.
The Mississippi Center for Advanced Medicine offers interdisciplinary healthcare services for children and adults with complex medical needs, including disabilities, through integrated care teams.
The Mississippi Home Care Programs provide home healthcare services, including skilled nursing and therapy services for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they can receive care in their homes.
Methodist Rehabilitation Center offers comprehensive rehabilitation services for individuals with brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other disabling conditions, helping them recover and manage long-term health needs.
The Mississippi Bend Area Health Education Center provides healthcare education and resources for individuals with disabilities, including medical training programs and access to specialized healthcare professionals.
Mississippi Vocational Training for People with Disabilities
The Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) provides comprehensive vocational rehabilitation services, including job training, job placement, assistive technology, and career counseling for people with disabilities seeking employment.
AbilityWorks offers vocational training and job placement services through a network of training centers across Mississippi, helping individuals with disabilities enhance their work skills and secure employment.
The Mississippi State University (MSU) Workforce Reintegration Program supports Mississippians with disabilities through vocational rehabilitation, offering specialized training to help individuals re-enter the workforce.
The Arc of Mississippi provides vocational training and job readiness programs specifically for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, promoting independence and employment opportunities.
The Addie McBryde Rehabilitation Center for the Blind focuses on providing vocational training, career counseling, and independent living skills for individuals with visual impairments in Mississippi.
Project SEARCH is a unique transition-to-work program that provides on-the-job training for young adults with developmental disabilities, helping them acquire competitive employment skills.
The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind offers vocational rehabilitation services tailored to individuals who are blind or visually impaired, assisting with job training and placement.
Mississippi Department of Education’s Career and Technical Education provides vocational training programs in high schools, including options tailored for students with disabilities to help them transition into the workforce.
The Mississippi Bend Area Health Education Center (MBAHEC) offers training for individuals with disabilities interested in pursuing careers in healthcare fields, providing both educational and vocational resources.
The Business Enterprise Program provides vocational training and entrepreneurial opportunities for individuals with disabilities to operate vending or food service businesses in Mississippi.
Mississippi Mental Health Services for People with Disabilities
The Mississippi Department of Mental Health provides a wide range of mental health services, including community-based supports, outpatient therapy, and crisis services for individuals with disabilities. They operate Mobile Crisis Response Teams across the state to assist during mental health crises.
Mental Health Mississippi serves as a central hub for mental health resources, offering online screenings, crisis support, and connections to local services, specifically designed for people experiencing mental health challenges, including those with disabilities.
Region 8 Mental Health Services offers specialized mental health services for adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including outpatient therapy, psychiatric services, and crisis intervention.
The Communicare Region 2 provides mental health services to individuals with intellectual disabilities, including therapy, crisis services, and day programs to enhance emotional well-being and community engagement.
Region 6 Life Help offers a full spectrum of mental health services, from outpatient therapy to crisis stabilization, focusing on adults and children with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Pine Belt Mental Healthcare Resources provides tailored mental health services for individuals with intellectual disabilities, including day treatment programs, residential services, and crisis intervention.
Hinds Behavioral Health Services supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a variety of mental health services, including psychiatric care and psychosocial rehabilitation.
Weems Community Mental Health Center offers comprehensive mental health services, including individual therapy, case management, and community support programs for people with developmental disabilities.
Community Counseling Services provides mental health support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, offering outpatient therapy, peer support, and case management services.
LifeCore Health Group offers community-based mental health services for individuals with disabilities, focusing on crisis response, therapy, and support for recovery.
Mississippi Vision Services for People with Disabilities
The NRTC on Blindness and Low Vision at Mississippi State University provides a variety of services, including research and training programs aimed at improving employment outcomes and independent living for individuals who are blind or have low vision.
Addie McBryde Rehabilitation Center for the Blind offers vocational training, orientation, mobility instruction, and daily living skills for individuals who are blind or visually impaired to enhance their independence.
The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) offers resources and programs to assist individuals with blindness or low vision in navigating daily life, including technology training and accessibility tools.
Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) provides assistive technology, job training, and rehabilitation services for individuals with vision impairments, helping them achieve independence and employment.
Vision Rehabilitation Services at the University of Mississippi Medical Center offers comprehensive vision care services, including low vision evaluations and rehabilitation therapies for individuals with severe vision loss.
Mississippi Society for Disabilities offers services such as low-vision support, advocacy, and resources for individuals across Mississippi, helping them live more independently.
OIB-TAC, supported by Mississippi State University, offers services to help older adults with blindness maintain their independence and participate actively in their communities.
Mississippi Vision Foundation provides resources, advocacy, and support to individuals experiencing vision loss, including access to assistive technologies and rehabilitation services.
The Lighthouse for the Blind offers job training, employment opportunities, and comprehensive rehabilitation services for individuals who are visually impaired or blind.
Region 10’s Weems Community Mental Health Center provides mental health and rehabilitation services, including support for individuals with vision impairments, helping them achieve better mental and physical health outcomes.
Mississippi Hearing Services for People with Disabilities
The Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) offers assistive technology services, including hearing aids and devices, to individuals with hearing impairments to promote independence and improve communication skills.
Mississippi Hearing-Vision Project provides services for children and youth who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or visually impaired, offering support such as communication assessments and assistive technology.
The Mississippi School for the Deaf offers specialized educational programs and support services for children with hearing impairments, including audiology services and speech therapy.
Help America Hear provides access to hearing aids for individuals with limited financial resources, helping improve the quality of life for people with hearing impairments through hearing aid donations and other support.
The Mississippi Council on Developmental Disabilities works to improve the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities, including those with hearing impairments, by promoting access to healthcare and assistive devices.
Mississippi Speech-Language-Hearing Association offers resources and referrals for individuals with hearing impairments, including connections to audiologists and speech-language pathologists.
Mississippi Hearing Healthcare Center provides comprehensive hearing services, including hearing tests, hearing aids, and assistive listening devices to individuals with hearing loss.
The Sertoma Club of Jackson supports individuals with hearing loss through hearing aid assistance and other programs aimed at improving communication abilities.
The Lions of Mississippi offers hearing aid programs and supports hearing health initiatives to help individuals with hearing impairments in communities across Mississippi.
Mississippi Ear Institute specializes in diagnosing and treating hearing disorders, offering services such as cochlear implants and audiology support for individuals with significant hearing loss.
Mississippi Speech & Language Services for People with Disabilities
The Mississippi Department of Education’s Special Education Office provides speech and language services through Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) in public schools, ensuring that children with disabilities receive the necessary support for communication development.
Mississippi Speech-Language-Hearing Association offers resources and connections to certified speech-language pathologists, focusing on improving communication abilities for individuals with disabilities across the state.
The University of Southern Mississippi’s Speech and Hearing Center provides comprehensive speech, language, and hearing services, including evaluations, therapy, and assistive technology support for individuals with communication disorders.
Region 8 Mental Health Services offers speech therapy as part of their developmental disability services, helping individuals with disabilities improve their communication skills in a supportive environment.
Mississippi State University’s Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders provides speech and language services through their Speech and Hearing Clinic, offering diagnostic and therapeutic services for individuals of all ages with communication disorders.
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is a national organization that connects individuals in Mississippi to speech-language pathologists and offers resources on communication disorders, treatments, and support services.
Children’s of Mississippi at the University of Mississippi Medical Center offers pediatric speech therapy services for children with disabilities, focusing on communication, language development, and feeding issues.
Mississippi Council on Developmental Disabilities works to ensure access to speech and language services for individuals with developmental disabilities by advocating for better resources and inclusion in educational and healthcare systems.
Mississippi Department of Mental Health provides speech and language services as part of their intellectual and developmental disabilities program, offering therapy and support for individuals facing communication challenges.
The Magnolia Speech School specializes in helping children with hearing loss and speech-language disorders through early intervention programs that focus on communication development and language acquisition.
Mississippi Autism Services
The Mississippi Centers for Autism and Related Developmental Disabilities offers comprehensive services including behavioral therapy, social skills groups, and sibling support programs, along with parent workshops aimed at helping families understand and manage autism.
University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) provides diagnostic services for autism spectrum disorder through its Center for the Advancement of Youth, offering early intervention and ongoing support for children and their families.
TEAAM Autism is a non-profit organization focused on improving the lives of individuals with autism and related developmental disorders through camps, events, and community engagement programs designed to build skills and social connections.
Spectrum Behavioral Services uses Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to help children with autism develop communication, social, and daily living skills through in-clinic, in-home, and school-based services.
The Autism and Developmental Disabilities Clinic at Mississippi State University offers behavioral and academic services for children, adolescents, and emerging adults with autism, using ABA therapy and providing social skills groups and individualized assessments.
Autism Solutions at Canopy Children’s Solutions delivers individualized autism therapy and services, including ABA, designed to help children with autism build essential life skills.
The Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders at the University of Southern Mississippi offers diagnostic evaluations and treatment plans, including ABA therapy and support for families navigating autism-related challenges.
The Mississippi Department of Education provides support for children with autism through its special education services, ensuring access to Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and specialized classroom settings.
Mississippi Families as Allies is an advocacy organization that supports families of children with autism by providing resources, peer support, and guidance to help navigate the educational and healthcare systems.
The Arc of Mississippi offers programs for individuals with autism, focusing on advocacy, support, and services that promote independence and inclusion in the community.
Mississippi Early Intervention Services
The First Steps Early Intervention Program by the Mississippi Department of Health supports families of infants and toddlers up to age three who have developmental delays, providing individualized family service plans (IFSPs) and coordinating services with professionals to promote developmental progress.
The Mississippi Early Learning Alliance (MELA) focuses on improving early childhood outcomes by advocating for systems that promote early intervention, helping children from birth to age five thrive in their development.
The Children’s of Mississippi Early Intervention Program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center provides comprehensive developmental assessments and early intervention services for children diagnosed with developmental delays, offering medical and therapeutic support.
Mississippi Thrive! is a collaborative initiative that aims to improve early childhood developmental health, offering resources and early intervention strategies to help children reach key developmental milestones.
The Mississippi State Early Childhood Advisory Council (SECAC) works to coordinate early intervention and educational services for young children across the state, ensuring that all children have access to high-quality developmental support from birth to school entry.
The Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center provides early intervention resources to families, helping parents understand and access early childhood services for children with disabilities.
MS Action for Progress (MAP) offers Head Start and Early Head Start programs that provide early intervention services for children from birth to age five, focusing on early childhood education, health, and developmental screenings.
The Mississippi Early Childhood Inclusion Center provides resources and support for early childhood programs to include children with disabilities, ensuring they receive early intervention services in inclusive settings.
Mississippi Families as Allies works with families to ensure that children with disabilities receive the appropriate early intervention services by offering advocacy and training to help navigate available resources.
The Cerebral Palsy Family Network’s First Steps Program helps families of children with developmental delays by connecting them to early intervention services such as assessments, individualized service plans, and community-based supports.