Resources for Student Parents
Explore resources available to UM students who are expecting or parenting.
Did you know 1 in 5 students across the country are also parents?
At the University of Mississippi, we’re dedicated to supporting student parents on their educational journeys.
In 2022, the Work-Life Resources team hosted a series of Student Parent Roundtable Conversations to better understand the unique challenges student parents face while balancing academics and parenting. These discussions shed light on the barriers, resources, and needs of these students and continue to guide the efforts of our Work-Life Resources program in providing meaningful support.
We're Here to Help!
Have questions? Expecting and need guidance on organizing your student-parenting journey? Need help staying on track to graduation? The HR team is here to support you. Many student parents at the University of Mississippi are making it work, and we’ll help you do the same.
Student Parent Survey
Resources
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Mississippi Child Care Payment Program
The Mississippi Child Care Payment Program (CCPP) offers tuition assistance for qualifying parents and guardians. Any parent with an income of up to about $38,000—regardless of gender or marital status—can apply, including parents who are also UM students. (Note: $38,000 is the cap for single parents with one child; it is higher for larger families.) To learn more about the program and see if you qualify, schedule a private Child Care Help Session with our team. We’re also available to assist with your application. Walk-ins are welcome, but if you prefer to reserve a convenient time, you can email Lynn Wilkins to book your session.
Email Lynn Wilkins to make an appointment -
Financial Aid
Are you reaching the limit of your financial aid due to your current Cost of Attendance (COA)? If child care expenses are not included in your COA, you can request a recalculation through the Financial Aid office. Learn more about Cost of Attendance by visiting the Financial Aid Office website.
Dependent Child Care Cost of Attendance Adjustment Worksheet -
UM Student Parent Association
The UM Student Parent Association (UMSPA) partners with the University to ensure student parents are heard and supported. Connect with other parenting students at the University to find community, support, and learning opportunities, including family-friendly events. Follow UMSPA on Instagram and join the GroupMe list for occasional updates about family events and other activities.
UMSPA Instagram -
Food and Baby Supplies
Grove Grocery, the University's Food Pantry, offers food, as well as supplies for babies and small children, such as diapers, wipes, baby food, and snacks. During limited hours between semesters, it’s best to use their online order form for convenience. All UM students and employees are welcome, and everything is free.
Grove Grocery website -
Meal Swipes
Grove Grocery Meal Swipes is a temporary assistance program sponsored by the Grove Grocery, Aramark, and community donated meals. This is a short term assistance program that can allocate up to 30 meal swipes per semester to students, faculty, and staff in need.
Grove Grocery Meal Swipes Application -
Employment Equity for Single Mothers
Employment Equity for Single Mothers (EESM) aims to support single mothers in Mississippi by connecting them with resources to secure higher-paying jobs in their communities. Each case receives personalized services to meet the unique needs and goals of the individual.
Employment Equity for Single Moms -
Military Families
If you're a military family, explore MilitaryChildcare.com for information on finding and paying for child care. Be sure to also connect with Veteran and Military Services on campus for additional support.
Veteran and Military Services -
Lactation Spaces
Are you a nursing parent? The University offers private lactation spaces across campus where you can nurse or pump in comfort. These spaces are available to all nursing parents, whether you're a student, faculty or staff member.
View Lactation Space Locations and Access Information -
UM Working Mothers Support Group
Have a question and want feedback from other UM parents? Join the UM Working Mothers Support Group on Facebook for friendly advice and ideas.
UM Working Mothers Support Group -
Activities and Entertainment
Oxford Moms and Tots regularly updates their list of child- and family-friendly activities, resources, and events in the area, making it a great resource for staying connected with local opportunities for families.
Oxford Moms and Tots -
UMatter
If you’re facing an expense or situation that’s impacting your ability to focus on school, reach out to the supportive team at UMatter. They offer crisis assistance, support, and referrals for a variety of basic needs and mental health or safety concerns. Contact them at umatter@olemiss.edu or (662) 915-7248 for help.
UMatter