Released Jan. 24, 2008

MISSISSIPPI STATE, Miss. -- A concerted effort is under way to improve the health of marriages across Mississippi.

Organizers of Healthy Marriage Week, Feb. 7-14, are planning activities in Jackson and towns across the state to draw attention to the benefits of two-parent homes and strong marriages.

Tabitha Staier, family education and policy specialist with Mississippi State University’s Extension Service, said taking care of the marriage relationship is a key to better communities. “Healthy relationships reduce the negative costs to children and communities. It’s time families recognize their worth and make the effort to create and maintain healthy environments,” Staier said.

Activities that week will be offered through the joint efforts of the MSU Extension Service, the Mississippi Department of Human Services and numerous religious organizations across the state. Additionally, the Extension Service has developed a Web site that will provide information for singles and couples regarding family issues.

The site, http://www.MarriageMississippi.com, includes dates and locations for marriage enrichment programs, information sheets on various topics and links to other helpful sites.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to honor the most important institution in America -- marriage,” Staier said.

For more information on healthy marriages and activities connected to the special week, contact local county Extension offices.

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http://msucares.com/news/releases/08/080124.html

Contact: Tabitha Staier, (662) 325-3080