The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) is funded through the Department of Health and Human Services,  Office of Community Services which provides funds through the Mississippi Department of Human Services, Division of Community Services to alleviate the causes and conditions of poverty in communities.

CSBG funding supports projects that:

• Lessen poverty in communities.
• Address the needs of low-income individuals including the homeless and elderly.
• Provide services and activities addressing employment, education, housing, nutrition, and health services.

The Division of Community Services distributes CSBG funds to local Community Action Agencies and Human Resource Agencies to address the needs of low income families by:

• Increasing Self-Sufficiency.
• Improving living conditions.
• Ownership of and pride in their communities.
• Strong family support systems.

Who is eligible for CSBG?

In order to receive CSBG services, individuals must be within 125 percent of the current Federal Poverty Guidelines.

How do I apply for CSBG?

Individuals who have never received services may submit a Pre Application through the Virtual ROMA website at  https://virtualroma.mdhs.ms.gov.  This site is available nationwide but services and funds are for residents of Mississippi only.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age or an emancipated minor. Individuals without access to a computer may call the Community Action Agency (CAA) or Human Resource Agency (HRA) in their area.  Refer to the agency directory for agency contact information and services location.

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy through initiatives that assist families with energy costs. This important resource provides financial assistance to eligible households in managing cost associated with:

• Home Energy bills
• Energy Crisis
• Weatherization and energy-related minor home repairs

Households may qualify for regular LIHEAP assistance and/or the Energy Crisis (emergency) Intervention Program (ECIP) for natural gas, wood, electricity, liquid propane/butane gas and other energy-related services.

Who is eligible for LIHEAP?

Individuals must be within 60 percent of the current State  Median Income Poverty Guidelines.

How do I apply for LIHEAP?

Individuals who have never received services may submit a Pre Application through the Virtual ROMA website at  https://virtualroma.mdhs.ms.gov. This site is available nationwide but services and funds are for residents of Mississippi only.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age or an emancipated minor. Individuals without access to a computer may call the Community Action Agency (CAA) or Human Resource Agency (HRA) in their area.  Refer to the agency directory for agency contact information and services location.

Weatherization is the nation’s largest residential efficiency program.  The MDHS Weatherization Assistance Program is designed to reduce energy costs for eligible families by increasing the energy efficiency of their homes while ensuring their health and safety.  The program, which specifically focuses on assisting the elderly, disabled, and low-income families with young children, improves the energy performance of dwellings to decrease monthly energy expenditures.  Weatherization crews provide the most cost-effective, energy-efficient measures to address health and safety concerns, improve comfort and indoor air quality.

Who is eligible for Weatherization Assistance?

The Weatherization Assistance Program is available to individuals who are within 200 percent of the current Federal Poverty Guidelines.

How can I apply for Weatherization Assistance?

Individuals who have never received services may submit a Pre Application through the Virtual ROMA website at  https://virtualroma.mdhs.ms.gov. This site is available nationwide but services and funds are for residents of Mississippi only.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age or an emancipated minor. Individuals without access to a computer may call the Community Action Agency (CAA) or Human Resource Agency (HRA) in their area.  Refer to the agency directory for agency contact information and services location.

1. VALID PHOTO ID

• Photo driver’s license, US Passport
• State-issued photo ID
• Employment ID
• School, college or university ID
• US Military ID
• Tribal ID, alien registration/permanent residence card, temporary residence card

2. SOCIAL SECURITY CARD

• Certified Copies
• Card for all household members regardless of age

3. BIRTH CERTIFICATE

• Provide copy for all household members regardless of age

4. INCOME

• Award letters;  (i.e., Social Security, SSI, disability)
• W2 form, paycheck stubs within a 30-day period, 1099, IRS Tax Forms with appropriate schedules
• Unemployment determination letter
• Child support, TANF Printout
• Other documents deemed eligible to verify income

5. RESIDENCE VERIFICATION

• Copy of utility bills
• Lease agreement
• Mortgage documents (i.e., deed)

**Other documents may be required**

Provided below are a few helpful links to sites for community services.

HHS ACF LIHEAP

HHS ACF Community Services Block Grant