Introduction
Mississippi, often regarded as one of the least desirable states in the United States, is plagued by a range of issues such as a failing education system, a struggling economy, widespread poverty, and high obesity rates. However, amidst these challenges, the state offers a unique and affordable way of life, with its down-to-earth and genuine residents. In this article, we will explore the state’s troubled townships, specifically in Choctaw County, MS, and examine the factors contributing to their decline.
Flora, Mississippi – A Struggle in Education and Poverty
Flora, a town named after an early resident known as Flora Man Jones, is situated just northwest of Jackson. Despite having a low student-teacher ratio, the town faces educational challenges, with average test scores 65% lower than the national average. This could be attributed to the lack of resources and support for teachers in the area. In addition, Flora grapples with high poverty levels, standing at 161% higher than the national average. However, despite the town’s hardships, it maintains a low crime rate and is populated by good-hearted individuals.
Delille, Mississippi – High Cost of Living and Unemployment
Located along the Wolf River, Delille is a coastal town with a relatively high cost of living. The goods and services index in Delille is nearly 10% higher than the state average, while the housing index is 92% higher. Consequently, the overall cost of living in Delille is approximately 32% higher than the rest of the state. In addition, unemployment in Delille is 84% higher than the national average, contributing to a poverty level that is 100% higher than the national average. Surprisingly, despite these challenges, Delille boasts a crime rate that is 85% lower than the national average.
Durant, Mississippi – The Struggle to Complete High School
Founded in 1858, Durant is a small town with a population of less than 2500. The income per capita in Durant stands at $12,000, with the poverty level reaching a staggering 201% higher than the national average. The town also faces a significant educational hurdle, with only about 72% of residents completing high school. Although Durant exhibits low crime rates, it experienced an incident of violence in October, where a fight in a beauty store escalated into a stabbing. This highlights the need for social support and opportunities for the town’s residents.
Walnut, Mississippi – Prioritizing Life over Education
With a population of only 750 residents, Walnut is a town that seemingly undervalues education. The average school test score in Walnut is 57% lower than the national average, and the graduation rate hovers around 67%. Established in 1872 by Henry Hopkins, the town underwent a name change to Walnut in 1876. Despite its disregard for academics, Walnut maintains a close-knit community that cherishes its small-town values.
Mayersville, Mississippi – An Employment Crisis
Nestled on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, Mayersville faces severe employment challenges. With an income per capita of only $6,000 per year, Mayersville struggles to provide stable jobs for its residents. The poverty level in this town is a staggering 207% higher than the national average. However, crime rates in Mayersville are notably low, earning the town an A+ rating in this regard.
Derma, Mississippi – Rising Crime Rates and Lack of Education
With just 900 residents, Derma has experienced a shocking increase in crime rates over the past year. From countless burglaries to robberies at fast-food establishments, a church, and a gas station, the town has witnessed a surge in criminal activity. The poverty level in Derma is 169% higher than the national average, further exacerbating the town’s challenges. Additionally, only 70% of the population in Derma has completed high school, signaling a need for greater educational opportunities.
Bude, Mississippi – High Crime Rates in a Tiny Town
Situated near the Chitto National Forest, Bude faces an alarming crime rate that is 47% higher than the national average. While efforts have been made to reduce criminal activities, the overall crime rate remains considerably high. At the same time, Bude battles a poverty level that is 186% higher than the national average. With a population of only a thousand people, the town mainly relies on a single economy – a diner.
Byhalia, Mississippi – A Struggle for Education and High Poverty
Byhalia, a small town with just 1,200 residents, grapples with educational and socioeconomic challenges. The violent crime rate in Byhalia is 71% higher than the Mississippi average. Furthermore, the average school test score in this town is 63% lower than the national average, indicating the need for significant improvements in the education system. The poverty level in Byhalia is a disheartening 145% higher than the national average.
Crosby, Mississippi – Unemployment and Economic Struggles
Located within the Huma Chito National Forest, Crosby faces significant employment challenges. With an unemployment rate that is 115% higher than the national average, the town struggles to provide stable jobs for its residents. The poverty level in Crosby is a staggering 195% higher than the national average. Despite these hardships, Crosby has a close-knit community of 285 residents, who strive to make the best of their circumstances.
Tutwiler, Mississippi – A Town with Educational and Criminal Issues
Tutwiler, a small town of about a thousand residents, faces significant educational obstacles. With only 62% of the population completing high school, Tutwiler exhibits one of the lowest graduation rates in Mississippi. Furthermore, the crime rate in Tutwiler is 64% higher than the national average, illustrating the need for enhanced safety measures. The town is also home to the Tallahatchie County Correctional Facility, housing inmates from various states, including South Carolina, Vermont, and Wyoming.
Conclusion
Choctaw County, MS, is home to several towns facing a myriad of challenges. From educational deficiencies and poverty to rising crime rates and limited employment opportunities, these towns are grappling with a range of complex issues. However, despite the difficulties, each town has its unique character and resilient communities. By shedding light on these problems, it is crucial to foster conversations and develop initiatives to address the underlying causes and uplift these troubled communities.