Southern Regional Office
Since 1995, CDF-Southern Regional Office has nurtured partnerships with religious and community groups, children's advocates, youth leaders, and public officials across the South. Our collaborative efforts have fostered positive transformations throughout the Southern states, including legislative changes, support for accessible child care, increased children's enrollment in healthcare programs, and essential student funding.
Supporting Partnerships to Assure Ready Kids
Supporting Partnerships to Assure Ready Kids (SPARK) Mississippi unites parents, schools, childcare providers, Head Start, and advocates to ensure school readiness and academic success for Mississippi’s 3 to 8-year-olds.
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Southern Rural Black Women’s Initiative
The Southern Rural Black Women’s Initiative (SRBWI) empowers women across rural counties in Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. Through training, advocacy, and leadership programs, we foster economic development, build networks, and challenge policies to uplift families and communities. Our focus? Building skills, networks, and local businesses, creating lasting change.
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Take Action for Children and Youth
Addressing America’s systemic disparities starts with our children and youth. Join us in ensuring every young person receives the support they need to thrive. Take action now.
Learn MoreUpdates from the Southern Regional Office
CDF Beat the Odds Program is Sunsetting
Since 1990, the Beat the Odds program has transformed young lives and emboldened youth on their path into adulthood. We are grateful to all who have supported this program over the years and honored to have played a part in amplifying the strength and talent of our Beat the Odds honorees. While we are retiring the CDF Beat the Odds program and brand, a new program is coming that will provide more robust support for young people and we look forward to your continued support.
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Share Your Story
Your story matters. Have you or your community been impacted by our programs or advocacy work? We want to hear from you.
Share Your StoryPrograms in the Southern Regional Office
Freedom Schools
At CDF Freedom Schools®, we’re not just educating; we’re nurturing lifelong learners and advocates for progress. By empowering the youngest generation, we’re sculpting a brighter tomorrow where we celebrate every young person’s potential, and affirming their impact on the world is profound.
CDF Freedom Schools
Movement Building
Through collaborative action and community-centered initiatives, we seek to reduce child poverty, achieve education equity, improve child well-being, and more. Together, we’re shaping a world where every young person’s journey is marked by dignity, hope, and joy.
Building a Movement for YouthNews from the Southern Regional Office
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Mississippi Public Broadcasting Interviews CDF-SRO Director Oleta Fitzgerald After Mississippi Rejects Federal Funds for Summer Food Assistance
In January, Mississippi leaders announced they would turn down federal funds provided through the United States Department of Agriculture’s Summer EBT program to help feed families and children this summer. Children’s Defense Fund-Southern Regional Director Oleta Fitzgerald discussed the ramifications of the state’s decision with Mississippi Public Broadcasting reporter Michael McEwen. She urged the state’s leaders to rethink their decision and apply for the USDA funds in the future. “It’s just stunning that our elected officials and policy makers would not make it possible for these families and children to access food during the summer months when they need it most,” Fitzgerald said. …
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Child Nutrition
CDF-Southern Regional Office Calls on Mississippi Leaders to Accept Federal Food Assistance in Support of State’s Young People
Jackson, MS—On Wednesday, the Associated Press reported that nearly 21 million children in the U.S. and its territories expect to receive food benefits later this year through a newly permanent federal program provided by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).…
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Contact Us
Children’s Defense Fund – Southern Regional Office
2659 Livingston Road, Suite 200
Jackson, Mississippi
Phone: (601) 321-1966