This study addresses major identifying characteristics of the poor in Mississippi. These include problems which are apparent from a study of census data and other secondary materials, such as family composition, family size and occupation, and socioeconomic and demographic attributes. Mississippi has changed from a one crop economy to a diversified economy. Mississippi has the largest proportion of poor families and persons of any State and poverty is more frequent among persons over the age of 65, persons living alone, black families, female headed families, and rural residents. Mississippi also has the largest proportion of school age children in poverty. Poverty is more severe among blacks than whites. Mississippi has the lowest per capita income, but it has been increasing in both relative and absolute terms. Levels of formal education attained by the population have rapidly improved except for blacks. Much remains to be accomplished in the provision of adequate housing. Ameliorative steps suggested include policies relating to migration, selective placement programs, taxation, educational opportunity, employment opportunities, retirement plans, and minimum wage legislation. Three analytical models are presented as a means of assisting action agencies to identify and interpret data in terms of the role of particular agencies and what this means with respect to their resources. (Author/AM)