Jackson, MS-Winston County Self Help Cooperative was recognized as a 2026 REACH Awardee during the Children’s Foundation of Mississippi’s 2026 Summit, Sowing Seeds of Success: Cultivating a Bright Future for Mississippi’s Children, held April 29–30, 2026, at the Clyde Muse Center in Pearl, Mississippi.
The two-day Summit brought together leaders, professionals, advocates, educators, community partners, and stakeholders from across the state for learning, connection, and conversation centered on the well-being of Mississippi’s children and families. Sessions focused on key issues affecting children across the state, including health, education, economic well-being, and family and community life.
A major highlight of the Summit was the release of the 2026 Mississippi KIDS COUNT Risk & Reach Report. The report pairs data on child well-being with real examples of people, programs, and organizations working to support children and families across Mississippi.
As part of the Risk & Reach Report, REACH Awardees were selected through community nominations to highlight meaningful, community-rooted work taking place in counties throughout the state. The recognition honors organizations, programs, and initiatives that are helping meet the needs of children and families in practical and impactful ways.
Winston County Self Help Cooperative (WCSHC) was selected as a 2026 REACH Awardee for its work across Mississippi. WCSHC provides children and the community with locally grown vegetables and fruits. Additionally, WCSHC mentor students and help education family to sustain life in rural communities according Frank Taylor, WCSHC Team Leader. “WCSHC is thankful for being selected as one of the awardees for 2026. This award will continue to propel WCSHC’s efforts to reduce food insecurity and will navigate a positive pathway forward. I want to thank our team members and the community for working collectively to change lives in rural America.”
Through the Summit, the Risk & Reach Report, and the recognition of REACH Awardees, the Children’s Foundation of Mississippi highlighted both the challenges facing children and the people and programs helping create stronger futures across the state.
To learn more about the Children’s Foundation of Mississippi and the 2026 Mississippi KIDS COUNT Risk & Reach Report, visit https://childrensfoundationms.org/.
To learn more about Winston County Self Help Cooperative, visit wcshc.com.
About the Children’s Foundation of Mississippi
The Children’s Foundation of Mississippi is dedicated to improving the policies, systems, and environments that affect Mississippi’s children and families. Through data, partnerships, advocacy, and community engagement, the Children’s Foundation of Mississippi works to help every Mississippi child reach their full potential.
