JANUARY
We are excited to present a new publication, “Changing Lives: An Investment in the Mid South,” which describes the success of the Foundation for the Mid South’s Individual Development Account (IDA) initiative, the first multi-state effort of its kind in the country. The IDA programs it nurtures help make long-held dreams a reality for hundreds of families throughout Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. The programs are available as a “hand-up” to people who are willing to make the necessary personal sacrifices to achieve things many of us often take for granted, like furthering their education, purchasing homes, or starting businesses.

While poverty can appear intractable, as you read through this report, we believe that you will see the possibilities robust IDA programs offer both individuals and communities. Images of people who have used IDAs to fulfill their hopes truly jump off the pages.  These photos and stories reflect the accomplishments, satisfaction and triumph of individuals who have proven that the cycle of poverty can be broken.  While their stories are a testament to the success of this program, they are not isolated or extreme examples.  Instead, they were chosen because they fairly reflect the overall accomplishments of the Mid-South’s IDA initiative.

We want to thank all of the people who have made these programs such a success, and to challenge others to join with us so we can continue expanding IDA programs in our region. The entire community – businesses, churches, charities and local officials – must play a greater role if we are to defeat poverty and create a better future for our region and a better legacy for our generation.

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Changing Lives: An Investment in the Mid South

View our latest IDA Insights newsletter >>> here.

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For more news on the Mid South IDA Initiative, sign up to receive IDA Insights, our quarterly e-newsletter. Please contact me with any questions or feedback on the Mid South IDA Initiative by calling 601.863.0495 or emailing me.

Necole S. Irvin , program officer

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