Jackson, MS – The Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) announced today that it will begin partial distribution of SNAP benefits following official guidance from the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). Beginning November 10, 2025, MDHS will distribute up to 65% of the November SNAP benefit allotment to SNAP recipients. Benefit amounts have been set by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service, not MDHS. 

SNAP benefits are issued on a rolling basis between the 4^th and the 21^st of each month. Those recipients who typically receive their benefits between the 4^th and 10^th of the month will be included in the upcoming issuance of benefits as early as November 10. All other recipients will receive their benefits on their regularly scheduled issuance date.  

In preparation for benefit issuance, MDHS encourages all SNAP clients to register their account at ConnectEBT.com and change their PIN number.   

SNAP recipients are advised to:  

• Register for a Connect EBT account and save ConnectEBT to their cell phone home screen and change their PIN after every use to reduce their risk of being the victim of fraud and skimming. (See TUTORIAL) 

• Monitor all account transactions and report any suspicious activity to MDHS https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/help/snap/snap-fraud/.

• Ensure all case information is current to avoid interruptions in benefits.  

• Follow MDHS social media channels for the latest updates on additional benefit funding and program announcements. 

MDHS will continue to share information as updates become available. For the latest details, visit www.mdhs.ms.gov or follow official social channels. 
 

### 

Medicare open enrollment is October 15, 2025 through December 7, 2025. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) helps eligible Mississippians navigate the choices available for joining, switching, or updating their Medicare health plan or prescription drug coverage to better meet their needs in 2025. 

SHIP offers in-person and phone-based counseling to support Medicare-eligible Mississippians in understanding and navigating available coverage options. Even if satisfied with their current plans, individuals should regularly review their coverage and make necessary adjustments to ensure it remains as effective as possible. 

Whether it is Medicare, Medicaid, supplemental insurance, or other coverage, SHIP personnel are trained to answer questions, compare policies, organize paperwork, and help with claims and filing appeals. 

According to Mississippi Department of Human Services Executive Director Robert “Bob” Anderson, “Providing Mississippi residents with reliable information is crucial for helping them make informed decisions about their health insurance during open enrollment. The Division of Aging and Adult Services provides community-engaged services and ensures adults with disabilities and their families have the resources they need to live healthy lives.” 

SHIP counselors will provide free, confidential, individual counseling to help beneficiaries find the most comprehensive and cost-effective Medicare health plan and Part D coverage. They can also check if they are eligible for Medicare Savings Programs. Those with Medicare who are having difficulty paying for medical care may qualify for Medicare Savings Programs. These programs can help save money on premiums, prescription drugs, and other health care costs. 

Medicare coverage choices made during open enrollment will take effect on January 1, 2026. 

SHIP is administered through the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) Division of Aging and Adult Services, in collaboration with local Area Agencies on Aging and the Mississippi Access to Care Network. 

For more information about SHIP services and the Medicare Open Enrollment Period, call 1-844-822-4622 or 601-709-0624. Help is available M-F 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. or visit Finding Services for Older Adults – Mississippi Department of Human Services (ms.gov)  

The Role of Mississippi’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program 

When we think about long-term care facilities—such as nursing homes, assisted living centers, and personal care homes—we often picture safe, supportive environments that treat our aging loved ones with dignity and compassion.

That vision does not come to reality without accountability and engagement by caring community advocates. So, who is responsible for ensuring that our most vulnerable populations are truly heard, seen, and cared for?  In Mississippi, that responsibility falls to a dedicated group of advocates known as Long-Term Care Ombudsmen. 

Under the federal Older Americans Act (OAA), every state is required to have an Ombudsman program that addresses complaints and advocates for improvements in the long-term care system.  There are 53 Ombudsman programs nationwide—one for each state, plus Washington, D.C., Guam, and Puerto Rico. 

In Mississippi, the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) is staffed by a team of 19 committed professionals who work to protect the rights and well-being of residents in long-term care settings. Our mission is simple but powerful: to listen, investigate, and resolve complaints on behalf of residents across the state—whether those concerns involve care quality, dignity, safety, or even something as basic as the right to choose their daily routine. 

What makes the Ombudsman program unique is that we work solely for the residents, not their families, not the facilities, and not the state. Our role is to empower individuals who may feel voiceless or overlooked, ensuring they have someone in their corner who will advocate fiercely and confidentially for their rights. 

Each month, Ombudsmen visit the 406 licensed facilities across the state, building rapport and trust with residents so they feel comfortable sharing their concerns. When a resident voices an issue and gives permission, the Ombudsman works diligently to resolve it. In 2024, the Mississippi LTCOP received 1,608 complaints from residents in long-term care facilities. Of those, 1,385 were resolved to the satisfaction of the residents by their local Ombudsman. The most common concerns raised in 2024 included: 

• The standard of care provided by facilities 

• Residents’ right to make choices in their daily lives 

• The overall environment and quality of life in the facility 

Other issues included facility-initiated discharges or evictions, delayed responses to requests for assistance, and even reports of physical abuse. 

Beyond resolving complaints, Ombudsmen also educate residents and families about their rights, monitor facility conditions, and collaborate with staff to improve care practices often through in-service training. In many cases, the presence of an Ombudsman helps prevent problems before they begin. 

Despite the critical nature of this work, many Mississippians still don’t know the program exists. That’s why raising awareness is so important. If you have a loved one in a long-term care setting—or if you’re simply a concerned citizen—you should know that the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is here to help. 

If you have questions or concerns, you can reach your local Ombudsman by calling our statewide hotline at 1-888-844-0041. This number will guide you to a directory to find the Ombudsman serving your area. You can also email us at Ombudsman@mdhs.ms.gov, and someone will respond to your inquiry. 

You can support our mission by: 

• Learning more about residents’ rights in long-term care 

• Starting a family council at your loved one’s facility 

• Sharing this information with others in your community 

At its heart, the Mississippi Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is about dignity, respect, and justice for some of our most vulnerable neighbors. Every resident deserves to be heard—and thanks to this program, they are. 

Jackson, MS- As the holiday season approaches, MDHS is dedicated to ensuring that eligible seniors have easier access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Through the Elderly Simplified Assistance Program, MDHS aims to simplify the application process and help older residents maintain their eligibility for important food assistance.

Protecting Your SNAP Benefits:
As the holidays can bring increased activity and potential risks, it’s crucial for seniors to safeguard their SNAP benefits. Here are some practical steps to prevent fraud:

• Change your PIN after every transaction and select numbers that are not easily guessed.
• Keep your PIN secure; cover the keypad while entering it.
• Monitor your EBT account frequently for unauthorized transactions.
• Check card reading machines for any suspicious overlays or attachments.

Important Reminder:
SNAP benefits will expire after 9 months of inactivity on the card. To prevent your benefits from expiring, it is essential to use your EBT card at least once every 274 days.

Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for the ESAP, individuals must meet the following criteria:

• All household members are aged 60 or over.
• No household members receive earned income.
• The household is not mandated to receive SNAP benefits through the Mississippi Combined Application Project (MSCAP).

Eligible households are required to apply through ESAP and cannot participate in the regular SNAP program.

How to Apply:
Seniors can use the SNAP Simplified Application for the Elderly (ESAP) form to apply for benefits. This form is available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. 

Applications are accepted if:

• Everyone in the household is aged 60 or older, or all members aged 60 or older purchase and prepare food separately; and
• No household member receives earnings from work.

As we celebrate the season, MDHS remains committed to helping elderly citizens access the resources they need for a healthy holiday. For more information about support for seniors, please visit Caring for an Older Adult – Mississippi Department of Human Services

(Jackson, Miss.) – November is National Caregiver Month, which is dedicated to recognizing and supporting caregivers as they provide essential care for others. This year’s theme is “Caregiving Around the Clock.” 

Through the Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS), the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) offers two primary programs to assist caregivers: the Mississippi Family Caregiver Support Program and the Mississippi Dementia Care Program. 

DAAS is enhancing its programs to assist those who care for our most vulnerable citizens and better support our aging population.  

“As our communities grow older, it’s imperative that we invest in the well-being of caregivers who are the backbone of our support systems,” said Kenyada Blake, Director of the MDHS Division of Aging and Adult Services. “The Mississippi Dementia Care Program is dedicated to providing essential respite and support services, ensuring caregivers have the necessary tools to care for their loved ones while also taking care of themselves.” 

Under the Older Americans Act, MDHS administers the National Family Caregiver Support Program, which provides temporary relief for regular caregivers—whether they are spouses, children, or relatives—of individuals who are ill, functionally impaired, or living with dementia and require constant in-home care. 

The Mississippi Family Caregiver Support Program collaborates with 10 Area Agencies on Aging and local community service providers to deliver five essential services for family caregivers, including: 

• Information about available services.
• Assistance in accessing services.
• Individual counseling, organization of support groups, and caregiver training to help caregivers make informed decisions and solve problems related to their caregiving roles.
• Respite care temporarily relieves caregivers of their responsibilities.
• Supplemental services, on a limited basis, to complement the care provided by caregivers. 

The Mississippi Dementia Care Program provides respite care and support services to informal caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias (ADRD) or cognitive impairment. Caregivers will have access to approximately 27 hours of respite care per month for twelve consecutive months. Support will also be offered through Building Better Caregiver workshops. 

It is crucial for caregivers to take regular breaks to recharge and manage stress levels. Here are some recommendations: 

• Be hopeful in your outlook.
• Maintain or increase levels of physical activity.
• Prioritize mental health.
• Stay connected with friends and family whenever possible. 

To connect to the Mississippi Dementia Care Program, contact the Mississippi Access to Care (MAC) Center at 844-822-4622 or email msdementia.care@mdhs.ms.gov. 

For additional information on Family Caregiver Support Program and other programs available for adults and seniors, visit MDHS Aging & Adult Services. 

A Journey from Victim to Survivor 

Jenny is a tragic example of the hidden nature of domestic violence. Following many years of abuse at the hands of her husband, Jenny’s world was turned upside down. She found out that her husband was not only abusing her but at the same time he was systematically tearing down her successful cleaning business. Having had enough, Jenny garnered the strength to seek out help from the Domestic Violence Center for Women on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. 

During this time she found herself at the MDHS office in Harrison County where she came looking for help. “I came from working for myself to being forced to seek assistance from both community based and government assistance programs.” she recalls.  

Jenny thinks back to her uncertainty as she entered the MDHS office, stating I walked to the window and said, ‘I don’t know. This is where I’m at, and this is what I’m doing. The lady behind the glass reassured me, ‘It’s going to be okay. We can help you get SNAP so you have food for your kids.’ 

Through the dedication of her Case Manager, Jenny was not only connected to SNAP but also to Medicaid, a job with a Coast municipality, childcare assistance, and other wraparound services that would empower her during her transition out of her abusive marriage. 

With the support of the Domestic Violence Center for Women, along with vital assistance from MDHS, she secured a divorce and a protection order that remains in effect to this day.  

With determination, she fought to provide not only security and daily necessities, but to help her children thrive and experience hope. For several years, Jenny continued working in the community, with an ever-growing yearning in her heart to help women and families similarly affected by domestic violence.    

Jenny shared her desire to make a difference with a friend who encouraged her to apply for an open clerical position at her local MDHS county office. 

Jenny accepted the position as a clerical worker and six months later was promoted to caseworker therefore giving her the opportunity to help women experiencing similar challenges to the ones she had faced. 

Jenny now uses her lived experience to dedicate her life to helping families facing similar struggles. “I understand how hard it is to ask for help. My story has empowered me to assist others in need.” 

Recently, she helped a woman in a similar situation as her own, connecting her with essential resources for safety and support. She told Jenny that she helped save her and her kids’ lives.  

Her commitment to helping others is deeply rooted in her own experiences. “I just know the stages that you can go through,” she says, noting how her understanding resonates with clients. “When I talk to them about their struggles, they realize I truly know what they’re going through.” 

Through her journey and experiences helping others, Jenny reflects on the other life lessons she has learned along the way. Recounting the 20 years she spent living in fear as a victim of domestic violence. “I felt like no one cared, and no one would help.” 

As a Survivor, “I learned to love again,” she reflects, celebrating her loving marriage of 14 years and the nurturing environment she has built for her children. “Mine is a Cinderella story,”  

Jenny emphasized the importance of recognizing that domestic violence affects everyone. “It’s not just women; men experience it too. They need to know that there’s help out there—shelters and resources are available for all.” Her mission is clear: “I’m here for the whole run. I’m not going anywhere. I want to help who I can help.” 

As we observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month, MDHS urges the community to remain vigilant and compassionate towards those who suffer in silence. “We must look for signs when someone needs help,” she implores.  

MDHS offers a range of support services to help individuals and families affected by domestic violence, including: 

1. Financial Assistance: Programs such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) to support families in need.
2. Workforce Development: Job training and employment services to help individuals gain skills and find stable employment. 
3. Food Assistance Programs: Nutritional support through various food programs to ensure families have access to healthy meals.
4. Child Care Assistance: Help with finding affordable childcare options for working families. 

If you are looking for assistance with any of the programs MDHS offers, please visit mdhs.ms.gov and find your local county office. 

“Hopefully, my story can help somebody realize that there is always a second chance,” Mrs. Head concludes. “Just remember, the first time is not always the last time.” 

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or the threat of domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline for help at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or go to www.thehotline.org for anonymous, confidential online chats, available in English and Spanish.  

(Jackson, Miss.) -A Monroe County, Miss. resident was arrested by authorities on October 2, 2024, following a SNAP fraud investigation conducted by the Investigations Division of the Mississippi Department of Human Service (MDHS). 

  MDHS announced that Arlean Gilleylen of Monroe County received $38,522.00 in SNAP benefits by not reporting household income and composition accurately to MDHS. Based on the evidence obtained during the investigation, the case was referred to the Monroe County District Attorney’s office. The Monroe County District Attorney secured an indictment on July 8, 2024, and Gilleylen was later apprehended by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday, October 2, 2024. 

 “This is a great example of collaboration between our investigations team, County offices, District Attorney’s office, and local law enforcement,” stated MDHS Inspector General Sandra Griffith. 

  Agent Reginald Adams of the MDHS Investigations Division investigated the case. The Investigations Division is a subset of the MDHS Office of the Inspector General (OIG), which was created in August 2018 and charged with detecting, deterring, and preventing fraud, waste, and abuse. OIG has been responsible for millions of dollars collected from overpayments. 

 “This investigation demonstrates once again, the strengthened controls we have in place to identify, investigate, and eliminate fraud in our programs,” MDHS Executive Director Robert G. “Bob” Anderson said. 

 An indictment is only an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 

 Suspected fraud can be reported to MDHS online at any time by submitting the MDHS Fraud Tip Form at https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/report-fraud/, calling the Fraud Tip Line at 1-(800)-299-6905, or email at fraud@mdhs.ms.gov. 

(Jackson, Miss.) -A Tate County, Miss. resident surrendered to authorities on September 24, 2024, following a SNAP fraud investigation conducted by the Investigations Division of the Mississippi Department of Human Service (MDHS).

MDHS announced that Erica Napper of Tate County received $25,222.00 in SNAP benefits by not reporting household income and composition accurately to MDHS. Based on the evidence obtained during the investigation, the case was referred to the Tate County District Attorney’s office. The Tate County District Attorney secured an indictment on August 7, 2024, and Napper later turned herself in to MDHS and Tate County officials on Tuesday, September 24, 2024.

“This is a great example of collaboration between our investigations team, County offices, District Attorney’s office, and local law enforcement,” stated MDHS Inspector General Sandra Griffith.

Agent Hunter Walton of the MDHS Investigations Division investigated the case. The Investigations Division is a subset of the MDHS Office of the Inspector General (OIG), which was created in August 2018 and charged with detecting, deterring, and preventing fraud, waste, and abuse. OIG has been responsible for millions of dollars collected from overpayments.

“This investigation demonstrates, once again, the strengthened controls we have in place to identify, investigate, and eliminate fraud in our programs,” MDHS Executive Director Robert G. “Bob” Anderson said.

An indictment is only an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Suspected fraud can be reported to MDHS online any time by submitting the MDHS Fraud Tip Form at https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/report-fraud/, calling the Fraud Tip Line at 1-(800)-299-6905, or email at fraud@mdhs.ms.gov.

Medicare open enrollment is October 15, 2025 through December 7, 2025. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) helps eligible Mississippians navigate the choices available for joining, switching, or updating their Medicare health plan or prescription drug coverage to better meet their needs in 2025. 

SHIP offers in-person and phone-based counseling to support Medicare-eligible Mississippians in understanding and navigating available coverage options. Even if satisfied with their current plans, individuals should regularly review their coverage and make necessary adjustments to ensure it remains as effective as possible. 

Whether it is Medicare, Medicaid, supplemental insurance, or other coverage, SHIP personnel are trained to answer questions, compare policies, organize paperwork, and help with claims and filing appeals. 

According to Mississippi Department of Human Services Executive Director Robert “Bob” Anderson, “Providing Mississippi residents with reliable information is crucial for helping them make informed decisions about their health insurance during open enrollment. The Division of Aging and Adult Services provides community-engaged services and ensures adults with disabilities and their families have the resources they need to live healthy lives.” 

SHIP counselors will provide free, confidential, individual counseling to help beneficiaries find the most comprehensive and cost-effective Medicare health plan and Part D coverage. They can also check if they are eligible for Medicare Savings Programs. Those with Medicare who are having difficulty paying for medical care may qualify for Medicare Savings Programs. These programs can help save money on premiums, prescription drugs, and other health care costs. 

Medicare coverage choices made during open enrollment will take effect on January 1, 2026. 

SHIP is administered through the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) Division of Aging and Adult Services. 

For more information about SHIP services and the Medicare Open Enrollment Period, call 1-844-822-4622 or 601-709-0624. Help is available M-F 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. or visit Finding Services for Older Adults – Mississippi Department of Human Services (ms.gov)  

(Jackson, Miss.) -A Pike County, Miss. resident surrendered to authorities on May 22, 2024, following a SNAP fraud investigation conducted by the Investigations Division of the Mississippi Department of Human Service (MDHS).

 

MDHS announced that Shantay Vega of Pike County received $26,160.00 in SNAP benefits by not reporting household income and composition accurately to MDHS. Based on the evidence obtained during the investigation, the case was referred to the Pike County District Attorney’s office. The Pike County District Attorney secured an indictment on May 18, 2024, and Vega later turned herself in to MDHS and Pike County officials on Wednesday, May 22, 2024.

 

“This is a great example of collaboration between our investigations team, County offices, District Attorney’s, and local law enforcement,” stated MDHS Inspector General Sandra Griffith.

 

Agent Aaron Rushing of the MDHS Investigations Division investigated the case. The Investigations Division is a subset of the MDHS Office of the Inspector General (OIG), which was created in August 2018 and charged with detecting, deterring and preventing fraud, waste, and abuse. OIG has been responsible for millions of dollars collected from overpayments.

 

“This investigation demonstrates the strengthened controls we have in place to identify, investigate, and eliminate fraud in our programs,” MDHS Executive Director Robert G. “Bob” Anderson said.

 

An indictment is only an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

 

Suspected fraud can be reported to MDHS online at any time by submitting the MOHS Fraud Tip Form at https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/report-fraud/, calling the Fraud Tip Line at 1-(800)-299-6905, or email at fraud@mdhs.ms.gov.