Every state has down payment or homeownership assistance programs; some states have both. The programs are designed to provide affordable housing opportunities to homebuyers who might not ordinarily be able to afford a house.
Each program can have their own income and eligibility requirements but primarily the programs are available for first-time homebuyers or low-income families.
Keep in mind if you had no ownership in a principal residence in the previous 3 years, you are also considered a first-time homebuyer even if you owned a home prior to that 3-year period.
The programs are not usually administered directly through the State. Instead, they are nonprofit based and handled through a third party agency. The list below will start you on your search but be sure to confirm the program is currently available.
(Source: HUD.gov)
Statewide Programs
Mississippi Home Corporation – homebuyer programs, including downpayment and closing cost assistance
Habitat for Humanity – through volunteer labor, builds and rehabilitates houses for families in need
USDA Rural Development Office – USDA Rural Development Office – homebuyer programs in rural communities
Consumer Credit Counseling Services – get help with budgeting, debt management and credit issues
American Dream Downpayment Initiative (ADDI) – call or email your local HOME program contact for more info
Mississippi State Community Action Agencies – listed by county, offering various services including homebuyer education and/or downpayment assistance
Delta Housing Development Corporation Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity Program – (662) 887-4852662
Home Ownership Vouchers – some public housing agencies help you become a homeowner through the Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program