29 individuals graduate from Family Self-Sufficient program in Gulfport

Twenty-nine people who were on government assistance were celebrated today in Gulfport as they graduate from their five-year program.

Family Self Sufficient is a program that enables assisted families to increase their earned income and reduce their dependency on welfare assistance and rental subsidies.

Family Self Sufficient also incorporates resources and services they may need to achieve long-term goals which helped five graduates become homeowners and create good credit for others.

Ophelia Cooley, a graduate, says she never imagined she would reach a point not just owning a home, but now a truck owner.

Through many barriers and as a single mother, Cooley stayed determined to reach her goals. “I give the Lord praise for that. I don’t take everything myself, without him it wouldn’t be possible. Without MS Regions it would not have been possible, but I did it and it feels good. If I could do it, anybody can do it. If I had all the obstacles that was thrown in front of me and I still overcome it, anybody can do it.”

If you would like to enroll in this program, go to their main offices in Jackson or Harrison counties to request an interest form.