Rule 18-24-1.5 - Organizational Structure of LIHEAPThe following summarizes the Organizational Structure for LIHEAP:
A. MDHS as Lead Agency: MDHS is the designated State agency to receive funds and administer the program covered in this manual. MDHS assists the Division of Community Services (DCS) by providing support services in a timely manner that is consistent with program goals, objectives and guidelines. MDHS awards LIHEAP subgrants based on the receipt of the Federal Notice of Award for LIHEAP, and the timely receipt and approval of subgrants for funding. MDHS is responsible for monitoring and evaluating the program performance of subgrants.
B. Division of Community Services (DCS): The Division of Community Services provides the necessary interface between the subgrantee and other divisions of MDHS. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
1) Administering the program in accordance with all applicable federal and state rules, regulations and guidelines;2) Informing the public of program rules, regulations, and guidelines through public hearings, announcements and publications;3) Establishing criteria and processing applications for funding from subgrantees to implement programs;4) Monitoring subgrantees' spending levels and processing claims requests to ensure compliance with Federal, State, and MDHS guidelines;5) Reviewing subgrantees' applications for funding to ensure compliance with federal, state and MDHS guidelines;6) Providing training and technical assistance to subgrantees;7) Keeping subgrantees informed of changes in Federal, State and MDHS regulations and guidelines;8) Providing responses to clients regarding inquiries concerning programs;9) Preparing annual State Plan applications to receive the federal funds;10) Collecting and disseminating information to appropriate funding sources and others as deemed necessary; and11) Serving as a liaison between county, state, and federal agencies in regard to program implementation.45 CFR 98.10; Miss. Code Ann. § 43-1-2(4); Miss. Code Ann. § 43-1-4 Revised: May 2022