Mississippi has seen less childcare fraud compared to states like Minnesota, but inefficiencies persist in its programs, according to a recent analysis.
The review focused on nonprofits receiving TANF grants from the state for childcare services. In fiscal year 2024, these organizations spent nearly $11 million to provide childcare.
However, the analysis found that several programs served less than half of the children they committed to each month. Despite falling short of their targets, these nonprofits received full funding from the Mississippi Department of Human Services.
Advocates say that if nonprofits are not meeting their commitments, state agencies should reconsider the funding. The idea is based on common sense, they say, rather than any groundbreaking policy change.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
