Meridian Housing Authority

Housing & Financial · Mississippi · Free

Public housing agency providing low-income housing and Housing Choice vouchers in the Meridian area of east Mississippi. Office at 2201 8th St, open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Fathers can call or visit to ask about current waitlists, unit availability, and eligibility rules. Applications typically require photo ID, Social Security cards, birth certificates for children, and proof of income for all household members. Waitlist times vary.

Contact & Details

Address: 2201 8th St, Meridian, MS 39301

Phone: 601-483-4838

Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

About Housing & Financial for Fathers

Housing and financial assistance for fathers comes through a combination of federal programs (HUD, SNAP, TANF, LIHEAP) and state/local efforts. Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and public housing are administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) with long waitlists in most markets. Emergency shelter and rapid rehousing are funded through the federal Continuum of Care program — every region has a Coordinated Entry system that assesses and places homeless adults and families. Rental assistance, utility assistance (LIHEAP), and one-time emergency funds are available through community action agencies and 211 referral lines. Fathers with children in their custody may qualify for Section 8 family priority and TANF, though state rules vary. This directory covers PHAs, shelter systems, 211 call lines, and community action agencies that serve single dads.

Housing & Financial 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.

More Housing & Financial in Mississippi

  • Mississippi Home Corporation — State housing finance agency administering affordable housing programs, rental assistance, and first-time homebuyer help statewide. Office a
  • Jackson Housing Authority — Operates public housing and administers Housing Choice (Section 8) vouchers for low-income residents in Jackson. Office at 2747 Livingston R
  • United Way 211 – Mississippi — Statewide helpline connecting Mississippi residents with housing, utility, food, and emergency assistance programs. Dial 211 from any phone
  • Gulf Coast Housing Authority — Operates public housing and administers Housing Choice vouchers for low-income residents in Gulfport and surrounding Harrison County areas.
  • Biloxi Housing Authority — Provides affordable housing and rental assistance to low-income families in Biloxi through public housing and Housing Choice voucher program
  • Hattiesburg Housing Authority — Operates public housing and administers Housing Choice vouchers for low-income residents in Hattiesburg and surrounding Forrest County. Offi

Housing & Financial — Common Questions

How long is the waitlist for Section 8?
Varies wildly — from a few months in some markets to 5+ years in hot metros (LA, NYC, DC). Apply to multiple Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) in your area. Some PHAs give preference to families with children, veterans, or homeless applicants.
What does 211 do?
211 is a free nationwide referral service operated by United Way and partners. Call or text 211 to reach a live specialist who connects you to local help with rent, utilities, food, childcare, employment, and more. Available 24/7 in most areas.
Can single dads get TANF?
Yes. TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) is gender-neutral — any qualifying parent or caretaker with a dependent child in the home can apply. Benefit amounts and time limits vary by state. Work requirements apply after a brief grace period.
What's LIHEAP?
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps low-income households pay heating and cooling bills. Apply through your state's LIHEAP office. Both annual assistance and emergency crisis payments are available. Don't wait until disconnection — apply at the start of the heating season.