BRANDON, Miss. (WLBT) — The city of Brandon has just welcomed a valuable addition to its community: the Mississippi LIFT Resource and Referral Center.
On Thursday, families, educators, and local officials attended the open house, celebrating a space built to help young children learn, grow, and have fun while doing it.
This new center is one of 50 LIFT Resource and Referral Centers now operating across Mississippi. Each one provides essential tools and materials to support parents and caregivers in early childhood education — helping kids start strong in their first years of life.
Supporting Early Learning from Birth to Age Five
Why Early Childhood Matters
Experts agree that learning begins at birth. According to Chad Allgood, Director of the MDHS Division of Early Childhood Care and Development, the first five years are the most formative in shaping a child’s lifelong success.
“We’re really talking about starting at birth — from birth to age five. These are the most formative years in preparing children for lifelong learning and success,” Allgood said.
“Anyone working with children needs access to the right materials, resources, and support to do it properly.”
The LIFT Centers were created with that belief in mind — ensuring every child, regardless of background, has the same opportunity to learn and thrive.
Strong Partnerships Behind the Project
Collaboration Between State and Education Leaders
The Brandon LIFT Center is the result of a partnership between the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) and the Mississippi State University Extension Service.
Together, they are expanding access to early childhood education statewide by offering free materials, training, and support for both families and professionals.
This collaboration represents Mississippi’s ongoing effort to strengthen communities through education and family-centered care.
What Parents and Teachers Can Find at the Center
Free Educational Resources for All
The LIFT Center in Brandon offers an impressive variety of hands-on learning tools — from storybooks and puzzles to educational games and creative play materials.
Parents can borrow these items for free, encouraging children to keep learning at home as well as in the classroom.
Teachers and childcare providers can also access lesson planning resources, classroom activities, and teaching materials to support early education programs.
All resources are designed to make learning interactive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate for young children.
Helping Every Child Reach Their Full Potential
Developmental Screenings and Personalized Referrals
Beyond offering educational materials, the LIFT Center provides developmental screenings that help identify a child’s strengths and areas for growth.
When needed, staff can connect families to additional programs and specialists for support — ensuring every child receives care tailored to their needs.
By addressing developmental challenges early, the center promotes long-term learning success and stronger emotional, social, and cognitive outcomes.
A Statewide Expansion with Lasting Impact
Growth from 17 to 50 Centers Across Mississippi
Just a few years ago, Mississippi had only 17 LIFT Resource and Referral Centers.
Now, after a three-year expansion by MDHS, there are 50 centers serving families across the state — a testament to Mississippi’s investment in early learning.
This expansion means more families in both urban and rural communities can access high-quality early education resources without barriers.
Meeting the Needs of Families and Educators
Responding to Changes in Education Policy
Officials emphasize that these centers are especially important now, as public policy and funding structures continue to evolve.
“We are seeing a lot of change right now with public policy and decisions around how we can efficiently serve the public,” Allgood said.
“Thankfully, everyone agrees that investing in early childhood education is critical. The children in these programs are our future — and if we’re not investing in the future, what should we invest in?”
The LIFT initiative ensures that, even during times of change, children and families have consistent access to the tools they need to succeed.
A Hub for Learning, Connection, and Growth
Building a Stronger Community Through Education
Beyond lending learning materials, the LIFT Center also serves as a community hub for workshops, training sessions, and family events.
Parents and teachers can come together to share ideas, learn new strategies, and support one another in their mission to nurture young minds.
Inside, the center is bright, colorful, and filled with activities that spark creativity. It’s a place where children can explore and adults can be inspired to help them grow.
Why Centers Like LIFT Matter
Investing in the Future of Mississippi’s Children
Programs like the LIFT Resource and Referral Centers have lasting effects on children, families, and communities.
By providing resources and early interventions, these centers help children enter school ready to learn — leading to higher academic performance and stronger social skills later in life.
For Mississippi, this initiative represents more than just education — it’s a long-term investment in the state’s future workforce, families, and economy.
🔎 Learn More About the LIFT Centers
To learn more about the Mississippi LIFT Resource and Referral Centers, including their locations, hours, and available services, visit the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) website or contact your local center directly.
All centers welcome parents, teachers, and caregivers who want to make a positive impact on early childhood development in their communities.
