Local Resources

A comprehensive list of local organizations providing services to visually impaired individuals in Mississippi.

Aaron Henry Community Health Services Center, Inc

Ages: NW

Rural demand response transit for the following counties: Coahoma, Desoto, Panola, Quitman, Tallahatchie, Tate and Tunica

662-624-4292

510 Highway 322
Clarksdale, MS 38614

https://www.aehchc.org/darts/delta-rides/

Transportation

Addie McBryde Rehabilitation Center for the Blind (through MDRS)

Ages: 16-Adult

A comprehensive personal adjustment center through MDRS for adults who are blind, visually impaired, or deaf-blind located in Jackson, MS.

Rosie Gibson, Director

601.364.2700, 800.443.1000

rgibson@mdrs.ms.gov

https://mdrs.ms.gov/workforce/vrb/addie-mcbryde

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingMedicalEducation & Transition

Alexander Transportation

Ages: NW

Non emergency transit from Washington County to any location in the state.

Ms Anissa

662-931-6468

P.O. Box 3951
Greenville, MS 38704

Transportation

ARC of Mississippi

Ages: All Ages

Promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.

Lisa Burck, Associate Director

601.355.0220

lisa@arcms.org

https://arcms.org

Support, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

Bellevue Specialty Eye Care

Vision Therapy Is An Eye Opening Experience - Our Vision Therapy services come from a place of compassion, understanding, and personal experience. We know and respect what you and your child or loved one may be going through. We understand and we are here to help. All optometrists are trained in vision therapy, however many do not specialize in it. Factors such as other chosen areas of specialization, office space, specific staff requirements, and the expense of the necessary technology and equipment needed to offer excellence in vision therapy, renders it impractical for many practitioners. As such, we are the only optometry clinic that specializes in Pediatric Vision Therapy in the Hattiesburg and Jackson areas.

Dr. Megan Lott

601.475.2020

https://bellevuesec.com

Medical

Blind Rehabilitation Service Veterans Affairs

Ages: Adults

Provides comprehensive case management and rehabilitation to Veterans who are blind, visually impaired, or deaf-blind. Service-Connected condition not required. VIST Coordinators (Case managers) located throughout the state. Gulf Coast Blind Rehabilitation Center provides inpatient services in Biloxi, MS. Additional contacts: Robin Sniffen, VIST Coordinator South MS, 228.385.6762, Robin.Sniffen@va.gov; Melanie Shurden, VIST Coordinator Central MS, 601.364.7937, Melanie.Shurden@va.gov; Keith Tackett, VIST Coordinator Northern MS, 901.523.8990 ext. 5577, Keith.Tackett@va.gov.

Debra Gilley, Chief, Blind Rehab Services, Gulf Coast VA

228.385.6730, 228.385.6762, 601.364.7937, 901.523.8990 ext. 5577

Debra.Gilley@va.gov

Support, Advocacy & Training

Blind Veterans Association of LA and MS

Ages: Adults

Tracy Ferro

228.229.5046

tferro@bva.org

Support, Advocacy & Training

Bolivar County Council on Aging, Inc.

Ages: NW CW

Wide range of transportation options to the general public and specialized populations. Representing the following counties: Attala, Bolivar, Carroll, Coahoma, Desoto, Holmes, Humphreys, Issaquena, Leake, Leflore, Madison, Panola, Quitman, Sharkey, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tunica, Washington, Yazoo counties (Satellite location in Jackson)

Delta Rides

662-846-6161 ext. 2041

DeltaRides_2003@hotmail.com

800 S. Davis Ave.
Cleveland, MS 38732

https://bccoatransit.org

Transportation

Brain Injury Association of Mississippi

Ages: Adults

The only nonprofit in our state specifically assisting traumatic brain and/or spinal cord injury survivors, both civilian and military, and their families. We provide timely and ongoing help through our referral network, support groups, survivor activities, and events. Additionally, we offer injury prevention education and advocate for laws that would prevent injuries.

Lee Moss, Executive Director

601.981.1021

info@msbraininjury.org

https://msbraininjury.org

Recreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingMedical

Bright Steps Therapy

Ages: All

Occupational therapy services for children and adults, including assessment and evaluation of cortical visual impairment, low vision conditions, training in low vision aides, and daily living modifications.

601.746.9242

https://brightstepstherapy.com

Medical

CDRY Touring

Ages: NW

Non-emergency transportation for the following areas of Mississippi: Cities of Clarksdale, Cleveland, Greenville, Greenwood, Indianola, Marks, Tunica and Tutwiler. Counties of Bolivar, Coahoma, Leflore, Quitman, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tunica and Washington.

662-313-8528

cdrytouringandcabservices@gmail.com

507 Corbin Street
Clarksdale, MS

Transportation

Central Mississippi, Inc.

Ages: NW

Demand-response transportation in 7 counties. Weekends as requested. Serving the following counties: Attala, Carroll, Grenada, Holmes, Leflore, Montgomery and Yalobusha.

662-283-4781

pgary@cmicsp.org

108 S. Front St.
Winona, MS 38967

https://www.facebook.com/CentralMississippiInc/

Transportation

City of Lucedale Special Transportation Program

Ages: SE

Demand response transportation for the City of Lucedale and George County.

601-947-2082

info@cityoflucedale.com

5126 Main St
Lucedale, MS 39452

https://cityoflucedale.com/departments/special-transportation/

Transportation

Claiborne County Human Resource Agency

Ages: SW

Demand-response & routes including shopping, non-emergency medical, employment routes and airport shuttle. Serving the following counties: Claiborne, Franklin and Jefferson. Additional website: publictransit_ed@cchra.claibornecountyms.gov

601-437-3063 or 610-437-1115

claibornresource@bellsouth.net

1703 Bridewell Ln.
Port Gibson, MS 39150

https://www.cchra-publictransit.com/

Transportation

Coast Transit Authority

Ages: SE

ADA Paratransit and ADA Paratransit Plus (curb-to-curb). ADA Paratransit Application: Available on CTA website or at CTA office (PDF/application links under “ADA Paratransit” section). Serving the following counties: Hancock, Harrison and Jackson.

866-206-8843

333 Debuys Rd.
Gulfport, MS 39507

https://coasttransit.com

Transportation

Coleman Transit

Ages: SE SW

Non-emergency medical transit. Serving Marion County and the surrounding region. Part of the Laurel-Jones County Transportation Network.

601-649-3623

1836 Hwy 84 E
Laurel, MS 39443

https://colemantransit.com/

Transportation

Community Action of South Mississippi

Ages: SE

Demand response transportation in Jackson County. Alternate email: lkendrick@jccivicaction.org

V. Gibson

228-769-3349

vgibson@casoms.org

5343 Jefferson Ave
Moss Point, MS 39562-8923

Transportation

Community Development, Inc.

Ages: SE SW CE CW

This program provides administration, capital, planning, and operating assistance to support public transportation in rural communities to increase the mobility of elderly and disabled persons, especially those persons not served by a specific program or agency. The transit program is tailored to coordinate the provision of specialized transportation sources within communities; and to maximize program participation by private sector service providers. Serving the following counties: Covington, Forrest, George, Greene, Hancock, Jefferson Davis, Jones, Lamar, Marion, Pearl River, Perry, Stone, Wayne counties and portions of Louisville and Rankin Co.

O. Hibbler

601-788-2777 or 601-788-2950

ohibbler@communitydevelopmentinc.net

411 Oak Street
Richton, MS 39476

https://www.communitydevelopmentinc.net/transportation/

Transportation

Connect 4 Transportation, LLC

Ages: CW

Demand-response. Available weekends and all hours of the day. From Madison County to anywhere in the state.

James Mason

601-624-4070

connect4transportation@gmail.com

687 Hazelton Drive
Madison, MS 39110

Transportation

Copiah County Human Resource Agency

Ages: SW CW

Affordable and accessible transportation. Demand-response. Counties served: Copiah, Hinds and Lincoln

Bonnie Gustavis

601-894-4788

bonniegustavis@aol.com

640 Georgetown St.
Hazlehurst, MS 39083

https://mscrd.org/resource/20153/copiah-county-human-resource-agency/

Transportation

Davis Transportation

Ages: NW CW

Non-emergency transportation. Counties served: Bolivar, Hinds, Humphreys, Leflore, Madison, Sunflower and Washington.

Ken Davis

662-347-9925

davistransitllc@gmail.com

2630 Airdale Drive
Greenville, MS 38703

Transportation

DeafBlind Community of Mississippi

Ages: All

A nonprofit organization promoting the social well-being of adults who are deaf, blind, or deaf-blind.

Andre Jarreau

303.520.7004

dbcm@earthlink.net

https://deafblindmississippi.org/

Recreation & Leisure

Delta Bus Lines, Inc.

Ages: SW NW

Intercity/fixed route + charter (general access; may serve rural mobility needs). Cities served: Clarksdale, Cleveland, Greenville, Indianola, Natchez and Port Gibson. Counties: Adams, Bolivar, Claiborne, Coahoma, Sunflower and Washington.

662-627-5188

1606 N. State Street
Clarksdale, MS 38614

https://deltabuslines.net/

Transportation

Delta Rides

Ages: NW CW

Regional Coordinator for Delta Agency / System Transit Providers. Network of rural public transit (& demand response). Serving 20 counties: Bolivar, Carroll, Coahoma, Desoto, Grenada, Issaquena, Holmes, Humphreys, Leflore, Montgomery, Panola, Sunflower, Tunica, Sharkey, Tate, Tallahatchie, Warren, Washington, Yalobusha and Yazoo.

Doris Green

662-846-6161

DeltaRides_2003@hotmail.com

800 S. Davis Avenue
Cleveland, MS 38732

https://yourdeltarides.org/

Transportation

Direct Transportation System

Ages: NW CW

Non-emergency transportation. Serving: Bolivar, Hinds, Leflore, Sunflower and Washington counties. Medical appointments in Tennessee. The Memphis and Jackson airports.

James Bradford

662-207-7621

Bradfordjames818@gmail.com

Greenville, MS

Transportation

Disability Connection

Ages: All

Dedicated to the mission of: “Creating a Connected Community to provide social support, ensure healthy futures, eliminate barriers, and foster cooperation and understanding for people with disabilities.” Form: https://disabilityconnection.org/contact-us/

228.604.4020

Recreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

Disability Rights of Mississippi

Ages: All

Advocates for individuals with disabilities to ensure their inclusion in home, community, education, and employment.

601.968.0600, 1.800.772.4057

info@drms.ms

https://drms.org

Support, Advocacy & Training

DJ Transit, Inc.

Ages: CE SE

MDOT funded rural demand-response transit (ADA accessible). Call office to schedule rides at least 24 hours ahead. Counties served: Covington, Jasper, Jefferson Davis, Jones and Lawrence.

601-682-0701

djtransitinc@gmail.com

1010 Rogers St.
Laurel, MS 39440

https://www.djtransitinc.com

Transportation

East Central Planning and Development District, Inc.

Ages: CE

Demand response for the following counties: Clarke, Jasper, Kemper, Lauderdale, Leake, Neshoba, Newton, Scott and Smith.

601-683-2007 or 601-938-4093

mail@ecpdd.org

280 Commercial Drive
Newton, MS 39345

Transportation

Enhabit Home Health

Covered by Medicare.

601.638.6606

2080 S Frontage Road, Suite 103
Vicksburg, MS 39180-5882

https://ehab.com

Medical

EZ-TAG Regional Group

Ages: CE

East Central Transit Action Group. Counties served: Attala, Choctaw, Clarke, Clay, Jasper, Kemper, Lauderdale, Leake, Lowndes, Neshoba, Newton, Noxubee, Oktibbeha, Scott, Smith, Webster and Winston.

L. Funderburg

662-325-5204 or 601-650-7429

lfunderburg@transportation.msstate.edu

Transportation

Families as Allies

Ages: birth to 21

We support each other and work together to make things better for our children. We believe: Families know their children better than anyone Families are their childrens strongest advocates Systems should follow laws and policies about families and childrens rights OUR VISION is that all children will have the opportunity to reach their potential and be successful. OUR MISSION is to make sure that all families are partners in every aspect of their childrens care.

Joy Hogge Executive Director

601.608.7525 / 601.355.0915

info@faams.org

https://www.faams.org

Support, Advocacy & Training

Family First Braille

Ages: All

Offers quarterly grants, braille transcription for visually impaired individuals and families.

Brenda Ramsey, Director

228.224.2920

brendaramsey@familyfirstbraille.com

https://familyfirstbraille.com

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & Training

First Steps Early Intervention Program

Ages: 0-3

A program that matches the needs of infants and toddlers with developmental delays to early intervention services. Form: https://msdh.ms.gov/msdhsite/_static/resources/2056.pdf. Fax: 601.576.7540.

Referral Coordinator

601.576.7427, 800.451.3903

Mississippi State Department of Health, 570 East Woodrow Wilson, P.O. Box 1700, Jackson, MS 39215

https://msdh.ms.gov/page/41,0,74.html

Support, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

Five County Community Transportation Program

Ages: SE SW

Demand response and flexible route service. Counties served: Covington, Jefferson Davis, Lawrence, Lincoln, Marion and Pike.

Joyce Loftin

601-792-4196 or 800-670-7178

joyceloftin9361@yahoo.com

2312 Columbia Ave
Prentiss, MS 39474

http://www.fivecountyhs.org/

Transportation

Gallant Hearts Guide Dog Center

Ages: Adult

The mission of Gallant Hearts Guide Dog Center is to breed, raise, train, and place well-trained dogs to assist visually impaired individuals.

Becky Floyd, Director

601.853.6996

RFloyd@GallantHearts.org

https://gallanthearts.org

Support, Advocacy & Training

Harbor House of Jackson, Inc.

Ages: CW

Demand response for Hinds County.

D. Black

601-371-7335

dblack@hhjackson.org

5354 I-55 Frontage Road East
Jackson, MS 39272

http://www.hhjackson.org/

Transportation

Harrison County

Ages: SE

See Coast Transit Authority. ADA paratransit. Serving Harrison County.

Lionel Darnel Turner, Transportation

228-241-2006

dturner@co.harrison.ms.us

47 Maples Dr.
Gulfport, MS 39507

Transportation

Hinds County Human Resource Agency

Ages: CW

Rural transportation for seniors/disabled + general transit. Demand response in Hinds County.

601-923-3930, ext. 1784

info@hchra.org

258 Maddox Road
Jackson, MS 39212

https://hchra.org/transportation

Transportation

Hub City Transit

Ages: SE

ADA Para-Transit. Demand-response service. Paratransit Application is available. Hattiesburg master plan includes Petal and surrounding portions of Forrest and Lamar counties.

601-545-4670

1001 South Tipton St.
Hattiesburg, MS 39401

https://www.hattiesburgms.com/hct/

Transportation

iCanConnect

Ages: 7-Adult

iCanConnect provides free equipment and training for people with both significant hearing and vision loss who meet the program’s disability and income eligibility guidelines. Additional contact: Angelique Landry, General Contact, 617.972.7712, angelique.landry@perkins.org.

Toni Hollingsworth, Local Contact

228.249.9668, 617.972.7712

hollingsworth.toni@gmail.com

https://icanconnect.org

Support, Advocacy & Training

Independent Living Services for the Blind (through MDRS)

Ages: 18-Adult

Provides adaptive techniques and support for individuals with visual impairments.

Lynda Hall

662.320.6656

lhall@mdrs.ms.gov

https://mdrs.ms.gov/workforce/vrb/independent-living-services

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

Jackson Central Lion’s Club Low Vision Clinic (Mississippi Assistance Center)

Ages: Birth through Secondary School Age

Services are offered to any child (from birth through secondary school age) who is a legal resident of Mississippi and enrolled in an educational program. Assessment staff members in the MAC include a Doctor of Optometry, specialist in orientation and mobility, and a classroom teacher/school counselor, as needed. MAC provides an educational assessment of student’s residual vision, training in low vision aids, low vision aids loaner program, orientation and mobility services, and more.

Dr. Glen Stribling, Optometrist

601.984.8222

tara.brister@msdbk12.org

https://msdbk12.org/msb-homepage/outreach-msb/

Support, Advocacy & TrainingTechnologyMedical

Jackson Transit System, JTRAN

Ages: CW

ADA Paratransit (curb-to-curb) for eligible riders in Jackson. Paratransit Application: Downloadable from JTRAN site – fill and include medical certification.

601-952-1000

transitstaff@city.jackson.ms.us

1785 Hwy 80 W.
Jackson, MS 39204

https://ridejtran.com/paratransit/

Transportation

L.I.F.E. of Mississippi

Ages: Adults

Empowers individuals with disabilities through advocacy and independent living services.

601.969.4009

info@lifeofms.com

https://lifeofms.com

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & Training

Liberty Connection Transit

Ages: CW

Non-emergency medical transportation service. Available 24/7. Transport Hinds County residents wherever they need to go. MS Medicaid program.

601-331-3381

mosleyjesus@aol.com

1230 E. Raymond Rd
Jackson, MS 39204

Transportation

Madison County Citizen Service Agency

Ages: CW

Demand response and flexible route service for Madison County

601-391-1993

mccsaweb@yahoo.com

1005 W. Peace St.
Canton, MS 39046

https://www.mccsaweb.org/Programs.html#Transportation

Transportation

Marion Personal Care & Escorted Transportation

Ages: SE

Personal assistance & escorted transportation for daily living or non-emergency travel. For Marion County and surrounding areas. Medicaid waiver. No email - no online presence.

601-736-6067

306 S. High School Ave
Columbia, MS 39429

Transportation

Medical Mall Transportation

Ages: CW

Connections to major healthcare and community services at Jackson Medical Mall. After-hours and weekends transportation available. Hinds County.

601-982-8467

350 W Woodrow Wilson Ave
Jackson, MS 39213

https://jacksonmedicalmall.org/programs/transportation/

Transportation

Mississippi ABLE (through MDRS)

Ages: All

Helps individuals save while maintaining their eligibility for SSI and Medicaid.

888.609.3469

ms.clientservice@savewithable.com

https://savewithable.com/ms/home.html

Career & Finances

Mississippi Association for Education & Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (MAER)

Ages: Adults

Provides professional connections, educational opportunities, and a yearly conference for vision professionals.

Tyler Griffin, MAER President

contact@MississippiAER.org

https://aerbvi.org

Support, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

Mississippi Blind Persons' Literacy Rights and Education Act

Ages: All

Provides information on state regulations regarding learning materials for individuals with visual impairments.

https://law.justia.com/codes/mississippi/2019/title-37/chapter-23/blind-persons-literacy-rights-and-education/

Support, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities

Ages: 5-Adult

A statewide nonprofit that expands opportunities and enhances the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Pam Dollar, Executive Director

601.969.0601

pam@msccd.org

https://msmegaconference.org

Support, Advocacy & Training

Mississippi Council of the Blind

Ages: All

Elevates the social, economic, and cultural levels of people who are blind and visually impaired, in cooperation with other programs of private and public agencies and organizations serving the blind and visually impaired. Additional contact: Rene Virden, Treasurer, rvirden40@gmail.com.

Jane Peets, President

769.257.4515

janepeets@yahoo.com

http://www.mscounciloftheblind.org/index.php

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingTechnology

Mississippi Disability Mega Conference

Ages: All

More than ten Mississippi organizations plan and implement an annual conference focusing on the abilities of persons with disabilities. Respite is provided by Joni and Friends.

Pam Dollar, MS Parent Training Information Center

601.969.0601

pam@mspti.org

https://msmegaconference.org/index.html

Support, Advocacy & Training

Mississippi EMERGE Center, located in Long Beach Mississippi

Ages: 16-Adult

Structured Discovery is a unique blindness skills training model that differs substantially from traditional approaches intended to help blind and low vision people to become self-sufficient. Structured Discovery training programs teach non-visual techniques and encourage problem-solving through exponential learning and confidence building activities. From time to time, the staff wear learning shades (blindfolds) to demonstrate their personal belief in the effectiveness of non-visual techniques. Staff walk the talk and function confidently with or without sight. The Training Center uses Structured Discovery teaching strategies across all areas of training, including cane travel, Braille reading and writing, home management, and technology. The consistent use of Structured Discovery principles helps the participants confront and challenge the negative social attitudes about blindness that unnecessarily limit the lives of far too many blind people.

601.853.5210, 800.443.1000

https://mdrs.ms.gov/workforce/vrb

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingMedicalEducation & Transition

Mississippi Hearing-Vision Project

Ages: Birth to 21 years

Provides support and training for families and educators working with children who have both hearing and vision loss.

Toni Hollingsworth, Project Director

228.249.9668

toni.hollingsworth@usm.edu

Recreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

Mississippi Heroes

Ages: Adults

Nonprofit organization connecting, supporting, and celebrating caregivers through resources and community initiatives.

Katherine Sutton

228.234.4649

MississippiHeroes@gmail.com

https://mississippiheroes.org

Support, Advocacy & Training

Mississippi Industries for the Blind

Ages: Adults

Provides training and employment for visually impaired individuals to foster independence. Fax: 601.987.3892.

1.866.859.4461, 601.984.3200

sales@msblind.org

2501 N. West St., Jackson, MS 39216

https://msblind.org

Career & Finances

Mississippi Instructional Resource Center (MIRC)

Ages: 0-21

Provides textbooks and specialized materials.

Dr. Antonio McGee, Director

601.984.8226

antonio.magee@msdbk12.org

https://msdbk12.org/outreach

TechnologyEducation & Transition

Mississippi Library Commission’s Talking Book Services

Ages: All

The Mississippi Library Commission serves as a free public library service for eligible Mississippi residents who are unable to read standard print due to a visual, physical, or organic reading disability and for institutions which serve these eligible individuals (schools, hospitals, living facilities).

Miranda Loper, Director

601.432.4116, 800.446.0892

talkingbooks@mls.lib.ms.us

https://mlc.lib.ms.us/tbs/

Recreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingTechnologyEducation & Transition

Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center (MSPTI)

Ages: 0-21

Provides families with information, resources, support, and training to help children with disabilities meet educational goals.

Leslie Junkin, Director

601.969.0601

Leslie@mspti.org

https://mspti.org

Support, Advocacy & Training

Mississippi School for the Blind (MSB)

Ages: 0-21

Provides K-12 education focused on the unique learning needs of visually impaired students. Additional contact: Lakesha Doyle, Principal, lakesha.doyle@msdbk12.org, 601-984-8203.

Mr. LaMarlon Wilson, Superintendent

601.984.8203

lamarlon.wilson@msdbk12.org

https://MSDBK12.org

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

Mount Zion Economic Community Center, Inc.

Ages: SW

Demand response for Amite, Lincoln, Pike and Walthall counties.

601-249-1999

4027 Fred Martin Rd
Summit, MS 39666

https://mountzionecommunitycenter.com/

Transportation

MS Band of Choctaw Indians Transit

Ages: CE

Serving eight recognized tribal communities in east central Mississippi. Leake, Neshoba, Kemper, Newton & Winston counties and the City of Meridian in Lauderdale Co.

601-650-7484

390 Industrial Park, Suite 1
Choctaw, MS 39350

http://www.choctaw.org/tribal-member-services-program/

Transportation

MS Christian Family Services, Inc.

Ages: NW

Demand response for Humphreys, Issaquena, Sharkey, Washington and Yazoo counties

662-873-4842

394 Pine Street
Rolling Fork, MS 39159

http://www.mschristianfamily.org/

Transportation

MS Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS)

The largest state agency committed solely to helping people with disabilities achieve independence through employment. Services may include vocational evaluation, counseling and guidance, educational assistance, job training, job placement, and assistive technology.

Dorothy Young, Director

601.853.5210

dyoung@mdrs.ms.gov

https://mdrs.ms.gov/VocationalRehabBlind/Pages/default.aspx

Career & FinancesSupport, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

MS Valley State University Mass Transit

Ages: NW

Demand response and flexible route service. They network with Delta Rides. Carroll, Grenada, Holmes, Humphrey, Leflore, Sunflower, Tallahatchie and Washington counties.

662-254-3348

sjfoster@mvsu.edu

14000 Hwy 82 West – Box 7292
Itta Bena, MS 38941

https://www.mvsu.edu/mass-transit

Transportation

National Federation of the Blind of Mississippi (NFB)

Ages: All

Advocates for blind individuals by raising expectations and promoting independence.

President.nfbms@gmail.com

https://nfb.org/about-us/state-affiliates/mississippi

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingTechnology

National Organization of Parents of Blind Children

Ages: All

A national advocacy group providing resources and support for families of blind children. Additional contact: Sara West, President of Mississippi Parents of Blind Children, 662.574.3942, sarawest2009@hotmail.com.

816.787.0140

PresidentofNOPBC@gmail.com

https://nopbc.org

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingTechnology

National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision (NRTC)

Ages: All

Strives to enhance the employment and independence of persons who are blind and visually impaired through research, professional training, and education.

662.325.2001

NRTC@msstate.edu

https://blind.msstate.edu

Career & FinancesSupport, Advocacy & TrainingTechnology

Never Lose Sight

Ages: Adult

A nonprofit organization designed to provide the blind/visually impaired community of South MS with resources to increase quality of life, expand possibilities, and regain independence and confidence.

Charlotte Searcy

228.769.1706

NeverLoseSight123@gmail.com

Recreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingTechnology

North Mississippi Medical Center’s Low Vision Rehabilitation Services

Ages: All

Provides services by an occupational therapist with a specialty certification in Low Vision Rehabilitation from the American Occupational Therapy Association. The program helps individuals with vision loss complete daily activities, manage medication, and use assistive technology. Fax: 662.377.3349.

Cheri Harbour, MS, OTR/L, SCLV

662.377.3340

cnipp@nmhs.net

https://nmhs.net/medical-services/eye-care/low-vision-therapy/

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingTechnology

North Mississippi Retina Center

Ages: All

Located in Tupelo, this center specializes in the treatment of retinal detachment, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.

662.377.3000, 800.843.3375

Medical

O&M Vision Rehabilitation Services LLC

Ages: All

Provides Orientation and Mobility training for individuals with visual impairments, as well as support for their families and related service agencies.

Laurie Hancock

601.394.2420

laurie@OMVRS.org

P.O. Box 447, Leakesville, MS 39451

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind (through MDRS)

Ages: 16-Adult

A branch of MDRS that specializes in working with blind and low vision individuals to optimize their opportunities for inclusion into the workforce, community, and home.

Dorothy Young, Director

601.853.5210, 800.443.1000

dyoung@mdrs.ms.gov

https://mdrs.ms.gov/workforce/vrb

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingTechnologyMedical

Open Doors Theatre

Ages: Unlimited

Open Doors Theatre strives to create a space where everyone, regardless of ability or background, can experience the magic of theater. From our diverse casts to our accessible performances, we are committed to ensuring that the arts are for everyone. Inclusivity drives our storytelling, amplifying voices that need to be heard and embracing the richness of human experience. Empowerment is at the heart of our mission, fostering confidence and creativity in all who step onto our stage or support from behind the scenes. Through service, we honor our audience, our community, and each other—making every production a celebration of connection, compassion, and shared humanity. At Open Doors Theatre, the spotlight shines on possibilities, and the curtain never falls on our commitment to making theater a place where everyone belongs.

Mackenzie Charles

contact@opendoorstheatre.org

McComb, MS

https://www.opendoorstheatre.org

Recreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & Training

Optimum Occupational Therapy Services, LLC

Ages: 12 and older

Younger age groups may be treated if a specific program is set up and guided by a pediatric vision specialist or similar professional. Optimum Occupational Therapy Services, LLC specializes in low vision rehabilitation for persons with vision impairments that affect the eye(s) such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and vision impairments resulting from strokes or other brain injuries. Fax: 662.247.1489.

Shirley Blanton, Founder and Director

662.455.0030

Optimummots16@gmail.com

https://optimummots.com

Medical

Radio Reading Service of Mississippi

Ages: All

The Radio Reading Service of Mississippi (RRSM) features on-the-air readings of newspapers, books, and magazines for persons who are unable to read standard print due to visual impairments or other physical disabilities.

601.432.6301

RadioReading@mpbonline.org

https://mpbonline.org/radio/radio-reading-services

Career & FinancesSupport, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

Sea and Sun Camp, Inc. (Lions of Mississippi Activities Corporation)

Ages: 5-16

A summer camp for children ages 5-15 years with visual impairments. Camp occurs one weekend each May at Camp Wilkes, in Biloxi, MS, and offers archery, kayaking, crafts, bicycling, swimming, fishing, and more.

Greg Crapo, Co-Founder

228.760.0239

SeaAndSunCamp@gmail.com

https://seaandsuncamp.com

Recreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

Sensory (Kids) Impaired Home Intervention Program (SKI*HI)

Ages: 0-3

The MSDB SKI*HI Early Intervention Program offers early intervention, family-centered opportunities free of charge for children ages 0-3 who are deaf/hard of hearing, blind/visually impaired, and deafblind. A specialized trained professional provides individualized services in the child's natural environment.

Dr. Tara Brister

601-984-8222

tara.brister@msdbk12.org

1252 Eastover Drive
Jackson, MS 39211

https://msdbk12.org/outreach

Recreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

Southern Low Vision

When a person with low vision contacts Southern Low Vision, Dr. Fields personally calls the patient or their caretaker to discuss their individual situation and advise them what can be done to help. He also discusses the fees involved and potential costs of low vision devices that might help them.

Dr. Roderick Fields

866.771.2040

https://southernlowvision.com

Medical

Space Camp for Interested Visually Impaired Students (SCIVIS)

Ages: 4-12th Gr.

A week-long camp for students in grades 4-12 at the US Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. Camp occurs the last week of September.

Dan Oates, Coordinator

304.851.5680

scivis.oates@gmail.com

https://scivis.org

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

T.K. Martin Center

Ages: All ages

The T.K. Martin Center provides comprehensive, multi-disciplinary evaluations to remove limitations through the application of assistive technology, allowing individuals to participate in educational, vocational and leisure activities to the fullest degree they choose. The comprehensive nature of the services offered ensures that the correct solutions are achieved efficiently and effectively, with needs being met in a one-stop shop. The Center staff provide services and outreach for individuals with disabilities of all ages including assistive technology, art, The T.K. Martin Center provides comprehensive, multi-disciplinary evaluations to remove limitations through the application of assistive technology, allowing individuals to participate in educational, vocational and leisure activities to the fullest degree they choose. The comprehensive nature of the services offered ensures that the correct solutions are achieved efficiently and effectively, with needs being met in a one-stop shop. The Center staff provide services and outreach for individuals with disabilities of all ages including assistive technology, art, early intervention and dyslexia services.

Eric Knox

662-325-1028

eknox@tkmartin.msstate.edu

326 Hardy Road
P.O. Box 9736
Mississippi State, MS 39762

https://www.tkmartin.msstate.edu

Career & FinancesRecreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingTechnologyEducation & TransitionEmployment

TF Mobility and Low Vision Services, LLC

Ages: 5-Adult

Provides Orientation and Mobility services to people with blindness or low vision.

Terri Ford

601.940.4322

tfmobility@gmail.com

Career & FinancesSupport, Advocacy & TrainingEducation & Transition

The Retina Institute of Mississippi

Ages: All

Conducts retinal surgeries and office visits to support patients who have damage to their retinas.

601.324.4066

https://retinainstitutems.com

Medical

Time Touch Take

Time-Touch-Take, LLC, launching July 1, 2024, specializes in automated medication systems for the elderly and blind. It provides caregivers with assurance that medications are taken on time using IoT-enabled technology with tactile, color-coded bottles.

https://timetouchtake.com

Recreation & LeisureSupport, Advocacy & TrainingTechnologyMedical