Mississippi’s Housing Assistance for Teachers program is providing essential support to educators looking to purchase homes in regions facing severe teacher shortages.

Click here for the most recent listing of areas approved by the state.

To qualify, teachers must commit to serving for three years in designated districts. The program offers forgivable grants of up to $6,000, which can be used for closing costs and down payments. Applicants are required to meet specific credit criteria and contribute a 1% down payment. Properties must be located within the teacher’s employment district.

There are no income limits for applicants unless the grant is combined with other Mississippi Home Corporation loan products. The grant is forgiven if the teacher remains employed in one of the 71 designated districts for three years. Additionally, the grant must be paired with a 25- or 30-year fixed loan, including FHA, VA, USDA, Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac products.

Funds for the program are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and are funded annually. This initiative not only aims to alleviate the housing burden on teachers but also strives to address the teacher shortage crisis in Mississippi by incentivizing long-term commitments in high-need areas.