News From Mississippi

AARP in Your State

November 2009

Stay warm — More state residents will qualify for help with heating costs this winter, thanks to an increase in income limits for an energy assistance program.

Individuals with annual income up to $21,660 and couples with up to $29,140 are now eligible for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which helps with heating and cooling costs as well as home weatherization. Applicants age 65 or older, those with disabilities and those with young children receive priority. Last year, the program served 61,675 Mississippi households.

To apply, contact Tina Ruffin with the Division of Community Services at truffin@mdhsstate.ms.us, 601-359-4766 or 1-800-421-0762.

October 2009

Spread the word — AARP Mississippi is recruiting and training volunteers to communicate with state and federal lawmakers on issues important to state residents age 50-plus.

On the state level, key issues include rebalancing Medicaid long-term care funding to allow more Mississippians to receive services that can help them remain in their own homes and communities as they age. Federal issues include reining in prescription drug costs and achieving meaningful health care reform.

Volunteer trainings will be held in each congressional district later this month. Anyone interested in volunteering should call 1-866-554-5382 toll-free by Oct. 9 to request an application.

July-August 2009

Delta outreach — AARP Mississippi is working with community and faith-based leaders and residents around the Mississippi Delta as part of a national effort to increase the association's outreach in black and Hispanic communities.

AARP staff and volunteers will work in two cities—Cleveland and Clarksdale—in the region. This predominantly African American area has some of the greatest health problems and lowest income in the country. A series of community conversations will gather feedback about how AARP can help, says Sherri Davis-Garner, senior state director.

Learn more at www.aarp.org/ms or by calling 1-866-554-5382 toll-free.