Fatherhood Programs in Mississippi

6 verified resources.

About Fatherhood Programs for Fathers

Fatherhood programs in the US are funded through the federal Office of Family Assistance (OFA) under the Responsible Fatherhood grant program and through state and local initiatives. Programs typically focus on three areas: healthy marriage and relationship skills, responsible parenting, and economic stability (employment and financial literacy). Services often include peer support groups, one-on-one mentoring, job training, help navigating child support, and reentry support for formerly incarcerated fathers. Organizations like the National Fatherhood Initiative (NFI) and Fathers' Rights Movement operate nationally; most states also have dedicated fatherhood coalitions and faith-based organizations running local programs. This directory includes federally-funded Healthy Marriage and Responsible Fatherhood (HMRF) grantees, state fatherhood coalitions, and community-based mentorship programs — all open to dads regardless of custody status.

Fatherhood Programs in Mississippi

Mississippi chancery courts handle divorce and custody in all 82 counties, with county courts handling some child support matters. The Division of Child Support Enforcement operates under MDHS. Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, and Hattiesburg are the largest cities. Mississippi Center for Justice and North Mississippi Rural Legal Services provide civil legal aid for low-income fathers.

6 Resources

1. Mississippi Fatherhood Initiative – MDHS — Free

State-run fatherhood programming through the Mississippi Department of Human Services supporting responsible fatherhood, employment, and family engagement. Headquartered at 750 N State St in Jackson and open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Fathers can call for information about classes, employment support, and referrals offered in their area. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and any custody or child support paperwork to intake.

601-359-4500 · 750 N State St, Jackson, MS 39202 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

2. National Fatherhood Initiative – MS Partners — Free

National nonprofit offering evidence-based fatherhood curricula and training used by Mississippi community partners, faith groups, and agencies. Phone line open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Fathers can use the website to find local programs running NFI-based curricula such as 24/7 Dad or InsideOut Dad, and to access parenting articles, videos, and handbooks. Many local programs are offered free or at low cost to participants.

301-948-0599 · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website

3. Jackson Urban League – Fatherhood — Free

Community-based nonprofit in Jackson providing father engagement, family support, and workforce services, with a focus on underserved communities. Located at 960 N Farish St and open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Fathers can call for information on parenting classes, job-readiness programs, and referrals. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and any custody or child support paperwork. Many services are free for income-qualifying participants.

601-714-4600 · 960 N Farish St, Jackson, MS 39202 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

4. Mississippi Children's Trust – Fatherhood — Free

Statewide nonprofit supporting programs that strengthen father-child relationships and prevent child abuse and neglect. Office at 3825 Ridgewood Rd #100 in Jackson, open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Fathers can use the website or call for referrals to funded local programs offering parenting classes, home visiting, and family support in their county. Staff can also direct callers to age-appropriate resources for new and experienced dads.

601-718-4029 · 3825 Ridgewood Rd #100, Jackson, MS 39211 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

5. Community Action Agencies – Father Programs — Free

Local Community Action Agencies across Mississippi offer fatherhood, parenting, and family self-sufficiency programs alongside housing, utility, and food assistance. Statewide network; Jackson-area line open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Fathers can call the main number for a referral to their nearest agency and learn about intake requirements. Bring photo ID, proof of income, and any court paperwork when applying for services.

601-981-0339 · Jackson, MS 39201 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

6. Big Brothers Big Sisters – Mississippi — Free

Nationally recognized mentoring program matching youth with screened adult mentors, giving father figures and volunteers structured ways to support children in their community. Jackson office open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Fathers can apply to be mentors or enroll their children as mentees. Applications include a background check, interview, and training. Mentoring matches are free for participating families across Mississippi.

601-982-3198 · Jackson, MS 39201 · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website

Fatherhood Programs — Common Questions

What do fatherhood programs actually do?
Most combine peer support groups, parenting skill workshops, help navigating child support and custody, job training or placement, and — for fathers involved in the justice system — reentry services. Programs run 6–16 weeks typically, and most are free.
Who can join? Do I need custody?
Most fatherhood programs serve any dad regardless of custody status, marital status, or whether children live with them. Many specifically serve non-custodial fathers and fathers coming out of incarceration. A small number focus on specific populations (teen dads, reentry, veterans).
Are there programs for fathers who lost custody?
Yes. Programs like National Fatherhood Initiative's InsideOut Dad, Father Friendly Check-up-affiliated organizations, and many faith-based programs specifically support dads rebuilding relationships with kids after separation or incarceration.
How do fatherhood programs help with child support?
Many run 'Fatherhood Fridays' or similar collaborations with child support agencies that provide modifications for reduced income, arrears reduction for program completion, or bridge-the-gap job placements to help dads get current on orders.